Recent reports to the committee have revealed a potential concern regarding our scope work being done by other crafts on the MRL.  It goes without saying that scope rights are of the utmost importance to all Union members.  On the former MRL, the scope rule was not as strong as we wanted it to be.  For example, prior to the recent Implementing Agreement with BNSF, the MRL could utilize contractors to perform scope work when the Company determined that it lacked the equipment, manpower or expertise to perform such work in an efficient and timely manner.  That was all that was required.  However, as a function of our Implementing Agreement, that allowance no longer exists, outside of the limited exception for completion of the PTC project.

Now more than ever, it is imperative that we protect our scope work on the MRL – from both contractors, as well as other departments.  The fact the Carrier is apparently still using MOW forces as part-time signal crews demonstrates they have yet to develop an appreciation for the strict application of our modified scope rule.  Please report every occurrence of any non-BRS member performing scope work, in any capacity, to your local chairman.  We will file claims for each and every occurrence until the practice is eliminated and the Carrier learns to appreciate how important our work is to us.