The lab workers, represented by AFSCME Local 3931, negotiated with Red Cross management for seven hours last Wednesday, the union said. Bargainers did not make any progress and no further sessions have been scheduled.

Blood donor Colleen McGilp says she won\'t give again until the Red Cross bargains a fair contract.

"The Red Cross continues to bargain in bad faith and refuses to provide the information we need to negotiate wages and benefits," AFSCME said in a statement. "The lab workers remain committed to saving lives and their affordable health care."

Blood donors joined workers and other supporters recently in protesting outside the Red Cross building in downtown St. Paul.

Colleen McGilp, who has donated 60 gallons of blood, said, "I won\'t donate again until these workers get a fair contract."

The lab workers safely process donated blood and blood products for 111 hospitals in Minnesota, western Wisconsin and eastern South Dakota. If forced to strike, safe blood could be in short supply, the union said.

Local 3931 is asking supporters to call the Red Cross to avert an unfair labor practices strike and a shortage of blood. Supporters are urged to call Dr. Mair, Interim CEO, at 651-290-8664, and Lisa Rohr, Human Resources, at 651-291-3396.

"Saving lives is our top priority and we want to settle this contract, but we can\'t do that until the Red Cross provides us with the information we need to negotiate wages and benefits," explained union negotiator Nola Lynch.

For more information
Visit the AFSCME Council 5 website, www.afscmemn.org

Union members and supporters protested outside the Red Cross building on South Robert St. in downtown St. Paul. Photos courtesy of AFSCME