Rowan, Rutgers plan creates division
By Eileen Stilwell
“The problem is we are not at the table. Our voices are not being heard,” said Jeanne Otersen, policy director for the Health Professionals and Allied Employees Union, which represents about 4,000 nurses and health care professionals in the state. It is one of about a dozen unions to be impacted by the proposed reorganization plan.
“Initially, we thought the goals were laudable. It is well known that the history of UMDNJ is one of corruption, so we supported change. Now, we are very disappointed that the issues of real substance are being treated as details. This process needs to move more slowly and be much more open.”
The American Federation of Teachers of New Jersey has no position on the merger, but does oppose the idea that the status of various local unions would have to change or decertify to accommodate changes in their employers.
The idea surfaced last week on the consultant’s report paid for by Rowan and Cooper Hospital.
“Forcing continual recertification of unions is a practice that distracts workers and has been used in places like Wisconsin to weaken unions,” said AFT New Jersey President Donna M. Chiera.
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