NLRB Backs IAM in Foster Farms Dispute

March 14, 2006 – The National Labor Relations Board filed a petition asking the federal district court to stop Foster Farms in Livingston, California from engaging in unfair labor practices outlined in multiple charges filed by the IAM.

Following a review of charges filed by the IAM, the board found sufficient evidence to support the IAM position. The Board also concluded that any delay would allow the company to continue their unlawful conduct and asked the court for a hearing on March 22, 2006, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Problems began at Foster Farms when workers there voted to affiliate with the IAM. The company immediately began trying to fight the affiliation and withdrew recognition and charged that the affiliation was not conducted appropriately. The NLRB disagreed, ruling that the affiliation was conducted with adequate due process, and that the company is obligated to bargain in good faith with the union.

“It is a shame that these workers have had to go through such an ordeal in order to exercise their rights,” said Western Territory GVP Lee Pearson. “They tried to negotiate with this company, and were stonewalled. This ruling confirms that the IAM has followed the rules, and that Foster Farms will ultimately have to recognize the wishes of their employees. We will not give up until we deliver a good contract to them.”

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