Port Gibson, Miss. – Negotiations between Entergy and the leadership of United Government Security Officers of America Local 36, which represents Grand Gulf security officers, regarding a new union contract were unsuccessful. The current contract with plant security officers expired at midnight on Sept. 30.

As a result, Entergy Nuclear has implemented a contingency staffing plan at Grand Gulf Nuclear Station to ensure a professional security force remained in place after the expiration of the current contract.

“Since those employees would have been working without a contract, they would reserve the right to leave their posts and strike at any time – a situation that is unacceptable at an Entergy Nuclear plant,” said Mike Balduzzi, Entergy Nuclear’s senior vice president of nuclear technical services. “The health and safety of the public is foremost among our obligations, and this measure will ensure we meet the rigorous standards required for securing, operating and maintaining our nuclear power plant.”

Highly qualified and experienced individuals from Grand Gulf, from other plants within the Entergy nuclear fleet and professional security firms that provide services to the nuclear industry will be filling the necessary positions. The contingency plan for alternate staffing is consistent with Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulations.

“Entergy Nuclear remains committed to plant safety, security, and to bargaining in good faith toward a fair and equitable contract for both employees and the company,” said Balduzzi.

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