Charges fly as Big Isle
union vote nears

Maryl Construction says
accusations of unfair labor practices
are just a tactic

By Rod Thompson
Big Island correspondent

KAILUA-KONA -- The Operating Engineers Union is accusing Maryl Construction of unfair labor practices, including the firing of a pro-union employee, as a vote on unionization approaches Thursday.

But the company says the charges are unsubstantiated and a common union-organizing tactic.

The union began an organizing effort among the company's heavy equipment operators in February when the majority of them complained about "at will" terminations, the lack of a pension, and low pay, the union statement said.

Fifteen company employees will vote on union representation at sites in Hilo and Kona. A previous organization attempt by the Carpenter's Union failed, the company said.

Heavy equipment operators in Hawaii earn an average of $28 per hour, the union said. At Maryl, they earn between $8 and $18, it said.

But Mark Richards, president of parent company Maryl Group, said, "Our wages are among the most competitive and we offer an outstanding benefit package. Because our total employment package is excellent, we are able to attract the best construction workers in every field."

"I personally believe it is of utmost importance for Maryl to maintain a merit shop, one where there is open communication and no outsiders between us," he said.

The union and company agreed on one point: Maryl has prospered at a time when the state economy has suffered.

From 20 employees in 1991, the company now has 165, Richards said. From $2 million in sales in 1987, the company has jumped to $30 million today, the union said.