(Boston – September 15, 2010) – The Massachusetts Division of Labor Relations has notified interested parties that a pre-hearing conference has been scheduled for Tuesday, October 12, 2010 at 1pm, with the formal hearing scheduled for Tuesday October 26^th, 2010 and Thursday, November 18, 2010 if needed.  The conference and hearings will be held at the DLR offices located at 19 Staniford Street, Boston, MA. 

These hearings will give NAGE an opportunity to present their argument about the Trial Court engaging in regressive bargaining.  NAGE has blamed the Trial Court for all of their woes, including NAGE’S inability to secure a contract for the past 4 years, while completely disregarding members concerns about poor representation, sub-par legal services and a complete breakdown of communication with its members.

The New England PBA began the decertification process on behalf of more than 50% of the Trial Court membership who have lost faith in NAGE.  Many members believe that this is just another delay tactic to allow NAGE to continue to collect their dues.  One member stated, “By delaying the election process, NAGE is just causing more people to look at NEPBA”.  

The Labor Board has ordered an expedited hearing to clear the way for an election that more than 50% of the Trial Court membership has asked for.