Education Dept. maintenance employees sign first CBA with SPT

By THE STAR STAFF

The Puerto Rican Workers Union (SPT by its initials in Spanish) announced Thursday the signing of the first collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between Mangual Office Cleaning Services and the union, guaranteeing greater rights, stability and improved working conditions for employees responsible for maintenance in the island’s public schools.

“Today we proudly celebrate a victory for the organized working class. It is a very significant day for all of us, as we signed the first collective bargaining agreement for the Mangual cleaning company,” SPT President Israel Marrero said in a written statement. “This historic achievement marks a new stage for the workers of this company. This agreement reflects our commitment to justice and the well-being of all workers.”

The agreement, signed at the offices of the Department of Labor and Human Resources, was attended by representatives of both the employer and the union, and is the result of a sustained effort by the employees to achieve fair and dignified working conditions. With the signing, the SPT expands its presence in the private sector and consolidates its position as one of the largest labor organizations in Puerto Rico, with nearly 12,000 members.

“This achievement not only improves the lives of Mangual’s employees, but also strengthens our entire union,” Marrero added.

Mangual Office Cleaning Services is one of the companies contracted by the Education Department to provide school cleaning and maintenance services, along with Xpert’s LLC. The SPT noted that Xpert’s employees, who are also unionized, are currently negotiating their first CBA.