Union: PRIDCO is failing to address labor concerns

Puerto Rico Industrial Development Company Executive Director Roberto Lefranc Fortuño

By THE STAR STAFF

Carmen Julia Vallés, president of the Independent Union of Employees of the Puerto Rico Industrial Development Company (PRIDCO), accused PRIDCO Executive Director Roberto Lefranc Fortuño on Tuesday of refusing to address a series of labor concerns that she says are adversely affecting operations at the public corporation.

Vallés said the union has repeatedly requested a meeting to discuss increases in travel and meal per diems, which have remained unchanged since 2009. According to the union, employees currently receive $0.65 per mile and $9.50 for lunch and dinner while performing official duties.

She noted that the union submitted a proposal to revise those rates under the previous PRIDCO administration, but claimed the current leadership has not taken up the matter. Vallés added that unionized workers are responsible for much of the progress PRIDCO has highlighted in the management and leasing of industrial properties.

The union leader also alleged that PRIDCO has failed to pay a productivity bonus approved by the Fiscal Oversight and Management Board for fiscal year 2023-2024, despite meeting the revenue targets outlined in the Fiscal Plan. She further questioned an increase in trust positions at the agency and said PRIDCO is leaving unionized positions vacant while relying on temporary employees to perform those duties.

Vallés said the Classification and Compensation Plan implemented in 2024 was not negotiated with the union and is currently under review before the Labor Relations Board. She added that some employees who received salary adjustments have still not reached the median percentage recommended by the oversight board.

“Before providing more information to the press or other forums, we urge Executive Director Roberto Lefranc Fortuño to sit down and engage in dialogue with the union,” Vallés said.