Declan R•••

About

On the record

I serve the IUOE Local 955 executive board as President and am additionally working as a Business Representitive. These roles are the ideal combination, as it allows me to bring an in-house perspective to the board. I am a strong proponent of open dialogue and value the importance of organizing, which needs to be supported by the board. I consider it is essential to focus on developing and supporting contractors to be successful. I also have an expansive skill set in Labor Relations, collective bargaining, negotiations— and act as a political action liaison. I enjoy getting out and seeing our members. Though there are many ways to be reach people, especially with new technology, you can't discount face-to-face interaction. It's sequentially the best way to communicate— and you're only as strong as your membership is engaged. Growing up in the union, my father, a 48-year member, often spoke of the advantages of being part of a Union and the importance of its establishment in society. It's that sentiment that makes me proud to be doing my part to keep that establishment working.