(AP) — Postal workers plan to protest forced transfers and delivery problems that resulted when the U.S. Postal Service moved its regional mail-sorting center from downtown to a more automated facility.

Since the move to Southwest Philadelphia began in November, 600 clerks have had to transfer, while outside workers were brought in to help with the transition. Meanwhile, there have been frequent problems with mail that has been delivered late or not at all.

The American Postal Workers Union is planning a protest Thursday at the historic 30th Street post office, saying the move has simultaneously hurt service and trampled on the rights of mail-sorters and other workers

No workers were laid off, but some were forced to transfer to other cities, said Sally Davidow, a spokeswoman for the union. It is patently unfair to bring in temporary workers while forcing postal employees to transfer, she said.

“It’s just a clear-cut violation of the letter and spirit of our contract,” said Davidow, whose organization represents 300,000 sorters, maintenance employees, drivers and technicians nationwide.

http://www.phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/103-08142006-697875.html