Firefighters’ union asks CPA for info in order to start CBA negotiations

The Northern Marianas Professional Firefighters Union IAFF-Local 5335 has asked the Commonwealth Ports Authority to provide the union with specific details on what information CPA needs in satisfying its concerns regarding collective bargaining agreement negotiations.

NMPFU IAFF-Local 5335 president Paul B. Sasamoto inquired in a recent letter to CPA executive director Leo B. Tudela as to what specific information is needed so they may officially begin CBA negotiations.

Sasamoto, who is a Fire captain, made the inquiry after receiving a letter from Tudela that he will not engage in CBA negotiations until all CPA’s concerns are addressed.

The union president said Tudela also urged the NMPFU IAFF-Local 5335 to contact the National Labor Relations Board for assistance.

In response, Sasamoto told Tudela: “Please be advised that NLRB does not have jurisdiction over government agency employees but rather the private sector in dealing with labor and employee relations.”

The union president requested Tudela to provide an official response within 14 days from the date his (Sasamoto) letter.

He also asked for a specific date to meet so that they can coordinate the time with the IAFF-10th District Negotiation Team for an initial meeting.

NMPFU IAFF-Local 5335 members currently consist of 25 personnel from the CPA’s Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting division and 78 personnel from the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services.