Carpenters Union Goes on Strike at PA Convention Center
Newsworks reports the Carpenters Union has gone on strike at the Pennsylvania Convention Center over rules that would allow convention attendees to set up their own booths and displays.
“There are tens of thousands of hospitality jobs that rely on the major events hosted by the center,” said Greg Fox, chairman of the Convention Center Authority. “If we are to remain competitive and busy, we have to have a different service model that is more efficient, less of a hassle and less expensive.”
The Inquirer has comment from union leader Ed Coryell Sr. on the walkout.
What’s at stake in this fight? “They want this crazy stuff. They want exhibitors to use power tools, which we are not going to allow. They want to double the size of the booths exhibitors can erect on their own. It’s currently 300 square feet.” Despite management claims to the contrary, Coryell says labor rules are already more pro-union at New York’s Javits Center and halls in Washington and Baltimore.
Bottom line for the Carpenters’ elected leader: “I’m trying to protect my members and not lose jobs.”
Philadelphia Business Journal adds: “Next week is supposed to be a busy one for the Convention Center, with events for the Broad Street Run, Konami, the American Cancer Society, and Commonwealth Connections.”
