Teamsters Initiate Strike Against Red Cross Northern Ohio Blood Services Region

CLEVELAND, Feb. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The following statement may be attributed to Christy Sabaka, Spokesperson, Regarding the Teamsters #507 Union Strike Against the American Red Cross Blood Services – Northern Ohio Region:

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American Red Cross Northern Ohio Blood Services Region employees who are members of the Teamsters Local #507 initiated a work stoppage today. Despite the efforts of both parties, contract terms have not been agreed upon and the union started its strike. The Red Cross is disappointed that the union has taken this action.

The union represents approximately 250 Northern Ohio Region employees who perform blood operations.

It is irresponsible for the union to go on strike at a time when blood supplies are already low. In fact, the Region was forced to cancel its largest annual blood drive, scheduled for today, due to this strike. This blood drive averages 800 units each year, and the labor disruption may impact the very patients who rely on these blood donations.

It is important to know that the Red Cross has offered contract proposals consistent with the pay and benefits provided to non-union staff. The fact that 16 other contracts have been ratified since July 2011 shows the Red Cross’s commitment to reaching successful resolution to negotiations, and we believe a resolution should also be achieved here.

The Northern Ohio Region remains committed to meeting the needs of hospital patients and will make every effort to bring in blood from other Red Cross locations to help meet the needs of patients in the local area.

Blood drive schedules in the Northern Ohio Region may be modified during this work stoppage. Blood donors are urged to call 1-800-RED CROSS or check online at redcrossblood.org to determine the status of the blood drive at which they wish to donate. The Red Cross regrets the inconvenience this may cause to its dedicated blood donors and volunteers.

SOURCE American Red Cross