Unions and the MWRA

Abstract: Deborah Wang reports on a labor dispute concerning the Boston Harbor Cleanup project. Wang notes that labor have signed an agreement with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). Wang reports that the unions have promised not to strike if the MWRA agrees to hire only union workers for the project. Wang interviews John Cruz (J.B. Cruz Construction). Cruz says that many minority businesses would like to bid on the project. Cruz says that he runs an 'open shop.' Cruz adds that he can afford union wages but cannot afford union rules. He says that his business is more efficient because his workers are not unionized. Wang's report includes footage from an interview with Richard Fox (MWRA). Fox says that the MWRA wants to avoid a work stoppage during the project. Wang also interviews Joe Nigro (Building Trades Council). Nigro says that unions give workers good healthcare and pensions. Wang reports that Cruz and other non-union contractors may challenge the agreement in court. Wang's report is accompanied by footage of African American and white construction workers working at a construction site. This tape includes additional footage of construction workers and construction sites.

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