"Having an unusually light bargaining schedule in 2009 gave the local the opportunity to focus on developing other aspects of the organization, including steward training," Roger Robinson, Local 876's president, said. "It is vital to train stewards in 2009 in order to have a skilled and confident steward group in place to assist with our extremely demanding 2010 contract bargaining schedule."

With the contracts of over 14,750 members at 17 employers expiring next year Local 876's already strenuous 2010 bargaining schedule is made more difficult by the tough negotiating environment.

"The sheer volume of contracts up for negotiations in 2010 would be challenging in any year," Robinson said. "However, with Michigan's economy still faltering and the state's unemployment remaining high, bargaining will be extremely tough in 2010. To varying degrees, some of our employers have been negatively impacted by the economic downturn to varying degrees. Others, continuing to do well, will attempt to use current conditions as leverage against their workers. I fully expect all employers to come to the bargaining table looking for some type of relief."

Local 876 will be looking to negotiate the best possible contract and for stewards' assistance in the effort.

 "More than ever, in our 2010 bargaining, we will be relying on stewards to use their one-on-one and other skills to help us secure the best possible outcome to each negotiation," Robinson said. "Active and involved stewards will be key to our success at the bargaining table."

*Negotiations complete, contract ratified 12-17-2009.