Boatmen at a longtime SIU-contracted company in the south are enjoying new benefits, following cooperative negotiations that concluded Jan. 7.
“After many months of discussions and negotiations that began during the 2022 contract bargaining sessions, we have successfully finalized a new paid-time- off (PTO) plan at E.N. Bisso & Son that will significantly benefit everyone,” reported SIU Assistant Vice President Chris Westbrook.
The union represents approximately 70 boatmen at Bisso, which is headquartered in New Orleans. They work as wheelmen, deckhands and engineers aboard a fleet of 14 tugs, providing ship docking and offshore towing services.
The enhanced PTO benefit is extensive. Highlights include immediate eligibility for all employees, including new hires; increased annual accrual; flexibility to use PTO for any time away from work not covered by other leave types; and an option to sell back unused time. Additionally, members were compensated for unused vacation days at the end of last year.
Negotiating on behalf of the SIU were Westbrook and delegates Kevin Wells and Todd Rabalais.
Wells said the vast majority of his fellow boatmen are quite pleased with the gains.
“They appreciate it,” he said. “Bisso was willing to work with us, and that’s what made it so worthwhile. And Chris did a tremendous job. The guys have a lot of trust in him, because we know Chris has our back.”
Rabalais stated, “These are good gains for us. No matter how you look at it, it’s money, whether you actually take the days off or cash in (up to 21 days of unused PTO). I’ve been there 40 years, and in my younger days, I couldn’t afford to take the time off. Now I can.”
He added, “The past several negotiations have gone really well and had good outcomes. Chris does a great job for us.”
Westbrook credited the delegates and the company executives for working hard during a series of bargaining sessions.
“In the end, this improved PTO plan will create a more supportive work environment and allow our members to manage their personal and family obligations effectively,” he said. “It reflects the union’s commitment to their wellbeing and recognizes the importance of work-life balance.”
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