| The letter was signed by 12 ag organizations before the negotiators took off for the trade meeting. |
| Union negotiators had been seeking a guaranteed 40-hour workweek and job assignments based on seniority. |
| Strikes have been put off until the end of February to give negotiators a chance to agree a deal. |
| Russia's fears are understandable but they might take some comfort that they are shared by the US negotiators. |
| Union negotiators and government officials are involved in talks to try to prevent further action. |
| In addition, government negotiators have proposed a rollback on health benefits, severance pay, and various leave provisions. |
