Tom Harkin: “I have come to the floor this evening to congratulate the president of the International Association of Machinists…”

“I have come to the floor this evening to congratulate the president of the International Association of Machinists union, Tom Buffenbarger, and Boeing's CEO, Jim McNerney, on their agreement today to extend their current contract for 4 years. This is a good deal. It reflects a strong and commendable commitment by Boeing to continue having their top-quality products made by top- quality workers. It provides real job security and fair treatment for the company's valued employees. It will also resolve the current labor dispute between the company and the union that is pending before the National Labor Relations Board. This settlement is a step forward for a great company--Boeing--a step forward for a great union--the machinists union--and a step forward for our great Nation. Again, I commend the CEO of Boeing, Mr. Jim McNerney, and the president of the machinists union, Tom Buffenbarger, for working out this agreement. This agreement is also a compelling demonstration of the fact that the NLRB--the National Labor Relations Board--process works for all concerned. When an alleged unlawful activity happens, a charge is filed with the NLRB. That is what is supposed to happen. While the NLRB's process was playing out, the parties were able to sit down, negotiate, and strike a deal, which they announced today. As a matter of fact, that is what happens to most unfair labor practice charges filed at the NLRB. It is all a part of the process at that independent agency.…”