Collective Bargaining — 10

Metal Trades

The IAM is affiliated with the AFL-CIO’s Metal Trades Department (MTD), and our Department assumes the responsibility for representing the International President in any activities the MTD may be involved in. The Metal Trades Department is comprised of Metal Trades Councils. Whenever a jurisdictional controversy arises in any locality in any establishment where a Metal Trades Council holds exclusive recognition and that controversy involves our union and any other affiliates, we assist the Councils in their negotiations and represent the International in adjusting any disputes or questions that may arise. The MTD Councils advance the interests of the metal trades industries.

Article XX

The Collective Bargaining Department also represents the International President at the AFL-CIO whenever an internal dispute exists between the IAM and an AFL-CIO affiliate. Article XX of the Constitution of the AFL-CIO states “no affiliate shall organize or attempt to represent employees as to whom an established collective bargaining relationship exists with any other affiliate”. By definition the term “established collective bargaining relationship” simply means any situation in which an affiliate or any local or other subordinate of that affiliate has either (a) been recognized by the employer as the exclusive bargaining representative for the employees involved for a period of one year or more, or (b) been certified by the National Labor Relations Board or other federal or state agency as the collective bargaining representative for the employees. Article XX allows for a process of resolution, which may include discussion, mediation, or ultimately arbitration with impartial umpires selected by the AFL-CIO.