The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees union, which represents University of California service and patient care employees, today (Jan. 31) held demonstrations at UC campuses and medical centers across the state. UC is currently in separate contract negotiations with AFSCME for the two bargaining units.

"We have been bargaining in good faith with AFSCME for months," said Howard Pripas, UC's executive director of labor relations. "Our focus is on getting two solid contracts that recognize our employees' dedication and many contributions, but that requires a willingness to compromise and work things through at the bargaining table from both sides."

UC began negotiating with the union in August 2007 regarding patient care technical workers, and has recently moved into mediation with the union in these negotiations. The university and the union began negotiating regarding UC service workers in October 2007, and the union recently filed for impasse. UC is currently considering the union's request.