UP, dispatchers union reach post-merger job security pact

Union Pacific Railroad and the American Train Dispatchers Association (ATDA) on March 26 reached an agreement that provides union members working for Norfolk Southern Railway with job security if the Class Is' proposed merger is approved by the Surface Transportation Board.

The pact guarantees dispatchers covered by the current NS-ATDA pact they will not be laid off for merger or automation reasons, ATDA officials said in a press release. In reaching the agreement, the ATDA has formally endorsed the proposed UP-NS merger.

Additionally, the pact guarantees a five-year, post-merger period before UP could relocate NS dispatchers from Atlanta. If relocation becomes necessary, UP would be required to provide a 270-day advance notice to the ATDA, union officials said. The agreement also provides protection of ATDA dispatch territories.

The agreement can be read in full in this letter from UP CEO Jim Vena to ADTA President Ed Dowell.