I think unions, like anything, are (or at least can be) a reflection of the people who populate it. And that relationship is colored by both the union and non union/administrative/management folks. MY negative experiences were part of an entire work culture, top to bottom, that was just foul. But currently it's a completely different situation. I can say though that I know and trust the people who bargain for me, and I even work with some of them. Everyone involved has an actual stake is creating and maintaining a good relationship with administration (and vice versa).