To Unionize or Not to...

Shuttle bus drivers and University officials this week entered the late rounds of a shadow-boxing match begun two weeks ago when some of the drivers threatened to strike for revisions in the new shuttle bus schedule and increased wages.

The drivers decided overwhelmingly on Sunday night to unionize before taking any work action, and they called on the University to recognize their right to form a union.

But as the drivers' Wednesday deadline for a University response passed without comment by officials, Thomas E. Curtis '81, the shuttle cocaptain and a representative for the drivers, postponed the drivers' resolution to petition the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Curtis said the drivers needed more time to consider the possibility of affiliating with the Teamsters' Union, rather than assuming the costs of establishing an independent union.

University officials said last week that even if the drivers proceed with their plans to petition the NLRB, they will fail to gain union recognition.

Currently, workers who are primarily students are not protected by the NLRB, Edward W. Powers, associated general counsel for employee relations, said Thursday.

But a representative for the NLRB said this week that the shuttle drivers clearly have the right to unionize because their jobs are not directly related to areas of academic interest.

The drivers have yet to formulate a set of specific grievances, which Buildings and Grounds officials requested over a week ago. Curtis said the group will meet on Sunday to compose a list and plan the next move.

During the last few rounds of boxing, the participants in the shuttle bout worked up a sweat by dancing around the ring. Although the roar of the crowd has been great, neither drivers nor University officials have thrown a single punch.