EMMC workers file charge Complaint cites unfair labor practices

BANGOR – A charge accusing Eastern Maine Medical Center of unfair labor practices has been filed with the Boston office of the National Labor Relations Board, according to a federal official.

Kathleen McCarthy of the board said last week that the complaint was received March 20.

“It has been assigned for investigation,” she said.

The complaint, filed by union organizers, alleges that the hospital has violated federal labor laws by prohibiting employees from discussing general work-related issues while on the job but allowing them to talk about other topics not related to work, McCarthy said.

The International Association of Machinists is trying to organize about 800 nonprofessional workers at the hospital into a collective bargaining unit.

Suzanne Spruce, spokeswoman for the hospital, said Monday that EMMC is a “conscientious employer” that looks forward to engaging in the board’s inquiry.

“We feel that our policies and administration are clear and in accordance with the law,” she said.

McCarthy said the board will try to make a determination within the next two months about whether the complaint has merit.