Union goes after contractor

The United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers' is alleging unfair labor practices at Davey Roofing in Las Vegas.

Roofers union Local 162 filed charges with the National Labor Relations Board against the Irvine, Calif.-based company, alleging that five union supporters were terminated after they signed a petition requesting union representation.

A Davey Roofing spokesman could not be reached for comment.

Union spokesman Tony Diaz said the laid off workers were told "their work was too slow," but union officials are convinced it was the petition signing that caused their dismissal.

Diaz said that shortly after the petition was given to Davey, several other workers complained they were not paid the promised piece rate for work performed.

Davey Roofing employs about 75 people in Las Vegas.

archive