In the midst of a crisis……..
As we are all aware by now the U.S. Postal Service is in a full blown crisis. Could steps have been taken to avoid it, well that is fuel for discussion at the water cooler. To review how this situation came about is important however, but that is not the place to focus our resources. Our jobs, benefits and pensions and our very way of life are in serious jeopardy. This crisis is caused by outdated laws that can only be resolved by Congress which is in itself dysfunctional and has failed to come to any consensus on new legislation. To make matters worse, some members of Congress are using the crisis as an excuse to crush Unions and end collective bargaining. Further complicating matters is a Postmaster General who wants to address all of the revenue shortfalls by cutting employee pay, cutting service and dismantling the USPS. As overwhelming as all this is, there are steps that we can take to save the USPS.
Education on the issues and commitment to be a part of the solution is critical to success. Most of the public know only what they hear in the news and we all know those headlines are written to get people’s attention and in this day and age drama and controversy sell soap!!!! Only a small percentage of the public truly understand the plight of the USPS so telling them is preaching to the choir. We need to get the truth to all those who firmly believe the USPS is a waste of taxpayer dollars and cannot operate without incurring billions in red ink. Those who would rather see the service cut to 5 maybe 4 or better yet 3 days because then the government could balance the Federal budget. How about privatizing the whole thing and be done with it, regardless that 700,000 middle class jobs are at stake with the USPS representing @10% of the GDP with many more thousands of jobs dependent on its health and viability. It is very important that all members attend this month’s and every branch meeting to learn about positive approaches to growing the business while maintaining wages and benefits and learn how we can push Congress to act. Come to the meeting November 3rd to get all the latest updates.
Having attended the National RAP Session held Oct.15-17 in Las Vegas, President Paul Rozzi will be reporting back to the branch some very important information. The NALC presented the issues that face the USPS and a comprehensive plan and strategy to ensure the USPS’ viability and subsequently our livelihood for decades to come.
Did I mention there will be free food and refreshments………..see you there.
