Rhode Island Airport Safety Workers Vote No Confidence in Management

Rhode Island Airport Safety Personnel Express Dissatisfaction with Management

In a dramatic turn of events at Rhode Island's largest airport, the public safety staff responsible for its security have voiced their dissatisfaction with the current management. The airport's police officers and firefighters, all members of AFSCME Local 2873 through Council 94, recently passed a no-confidence vote against the Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC).

The discontent stems from ongoing contract disputes and what the union describes as unlawful actions by RIAC's CEO, Iftikhar Ahmad. A key point of contention was the dismissal of Steven Parent, the president of Local 2873.

Parent highlighted the high turnover rate under Ahmad's leadership, stating, “Under CEO Ahmad’s tenure, over 60 nonunion employees were terminated or left RIAC, we’ve had over four different police chiefs, and the police department is running 10 officers short in violation of a grievance settlement.” His statement underscores the union's call for an end to the "hostile churn and burn management" practices.

This collective action follows the unexpected departure of the airport's chief of police after just 90 days in the role. Joseph Perkins, the former Director of Public Safety, cited "incompetence" and "serious leadership failures" as his reasons for leaving, as detailed in his resignation announcement.

Further escalating the situation, Local 2873 has filed a class action grievance, accusing management of continuous understaffing issues within the airport police department.

Council 94 President Michael McDonald reiterated the union's commitment to fair negotiations, emphasizing their determination to secure a fair contract and mutual respect from management. “Our members will ensure CEO Ahmad provides a fair contract, dignity, and respect,” he declared.

The AFSCME union continues to be a pivotal force for public safety workers, advocating for better working conditions, enhanced wages, improved health care, and a secure retirement. Their members, who are integral to corrections, law enforcement, and emergency services, remain steadfast in defending the rights of the communities they serve.

To learn more about AFSCME's initiatives and how to get involved, visit AFSCME Public Safety website.