Fairfield University maintenance workers demonstrated on campus on Tuesday to bring attention to their contract negotiations. At the center of the talks is a proposed health care plan, which would cost employees about $200 a week, according to the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 30, which represents the school”™s full-time maintenance workers.
IUOE maintains that its own plan offers better benefits at a lower price. Such coverage must be granted through collective bargaining with the university, which has not been responsive, according to the union.
While their contract expires at the end of this month, the workers are not expected to strike, although further demonstrations could take place.
The school issued a statement saying: “Fairfield University is committed to providing a fair, safe and rewarding workplace for all of our employees and contractors. Fairfield University does not comment on contract negotiations or ongoing personnel matters.”
