Local Scene

Fire Fighter Appointed to Alaska Labor Relations Agency

January 5, 2006 – Secretary-Treasurer of the Alaska Professional Fire Fighters Association (AKPFFA) and member of Anchorage, AK Local 1264 Matt McSorley has been appointed by the governor to the Alaska Labor Relations Agency Board. He fills filling one of two seats reserved for a labor representative.

“Since the AKPFFA formed just a year ago, we have been working hard to establish a good statewide political reputation,” says McSorley, a 10-year veteran fire fighter. “This appointment confirms that we are on the right track and well-received in the state capitol. I am looking forward to serving on the board.”

One of the two board positions reserved for labor had been vacant for a year. McSorley submitted an application and was appointed by Governor Frank Murkowski in December 2005.

The Alaska Labor Relations Agency is governed by six members who serve staggered three-year terms. Members must have backgrounds in labor relations, and two members must be drawn from management, labor and the general public.

The agency conducts elections to certify or decertify employee representatives, hears unfair labor practice charges, determines appropriate bargaining units and enforces collective bargaining agreements.

McSorley’s term expires March 1, 2009.