Sep 3, 2007 6:15 pm US/Central
AFSCME Threatens To Strike At 'U'
by Darcy Pohland
(WCCO)
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Four years ago clerical workers picketed for two weeks. The university said it had little impact on campus.
CBS
Classes start Tuesday at the University of Minnesota, but on Wednesday there may be a strike on campus.
The American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees is threatening to walk out. That includes clerical, technical and health care workers. Four years ago the same union walked the picket line.
On a day dedicated to workers and labor unions a march of solidarity followed a call to action.
"On Wednesday September 5 the clerical technical and health care workers at the U of M are set to walk out on strike," said AFSME local 3800 president Phyllis Walker.
At issue are wages. The university says it's offering four-and-a-quarter percent increases per year. The union argues that number includes raises already promised so it really only adds up to two-and-a-quarter more.
"They're using fuzzy math to try to make people think they're offering us more than they really are," said Walker.
Four years ago clerical workers picketed for two weeks. The university said it had little impact on campus. Because this year's strike is set for the first week of school administrators admit it'll be somewhat disruptive but far from crippling.
Even so, incoming freshmen are bracing for the worst.
"You want everything to go smoothly so I hope they can provide the normal assistance that they need, said freshman Brian Girard.
The U of M Veterinary Hospital and libraries will probably feel the worker's absence the most.
"It's hard enough to navigate. Without extra help it'll be even harder," said freshman Laura Wallenta.
"I'm not ready for this," said freshman Amber Johnson.
Both sides say they're ready to go back to the table but no new talks are scheduled.
(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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