John Samuelsen Concedes

Members Rebuilding TWU

Recently we wrote to you that we would continue the fight until Samuelsen's and his administration returned the surplus to those who contributed to the "Solidarity Fund", well due to the Legal fight and the pressures from members, John Samuelsen Concedes and is recommending to the executive board that any money remaining be returned to members.  Read Chiefs article below.                                                                              

Refunds Possible

The Solidarity Fund, which was ratified by union members, mandated a $10-per-check contribution, which was later reduced to $5. Once Local 100 officials realized they had enough money to help laid-off workers, they stopped taking the contributions. Mr. Samuelsen established a committee to oversee the funds, which directly paid or reimbursed unemployed members for medical care. To receive benefits, a member had to be

in good standing and couldn’t already be covered by another benefit plan. These requirements weeded out a significant number of workers. So far, about 225 people have received benefits through the Solidarity Fund, and more are expected to use it. Mr. Samuelsen is recommending to the executive board that any money remaining be returned to members. We’re going to reimburse proportionally to who contributed what, he said, adding

that no one had contributed more than $130.

However, we must remember the reason that the Legal fight and member’s outrage over the Solidarity Fund began it was the process (see attached) on which Samuelsen and his administration chose to take money from the members. Until we get some written reassurance that while he is in office this or any other similar process will not be followed again, we must continue the fight.   

                                                                       In Solidarity 

                                                                      Charles Ayala