New Collective Agreement Paves Way Forward For Big River Mill

BIG RIVER, SK, Oct. 30, 2012 /CNW/ - Carrier Forest Products and the United Steelworkers Local 1-184 are pleased to announce that they have successfully negotiated a collective agreement covering the company's mill in Big River, Saskatchewan.

Carrier Forest Products says the agreement is a key step in getting the mill operational, and ensuring its long-term stability.

"By working in partnership with the United Steelworkers, we've reached an agreement that will allow the Big River mill to be competitive with other operations, and to be placed on solid ground for the future," says Bill Kordyban, President of Carrier Forest Products.

United Steelworkers Local 1-184 President Paul Hallen says the agreement is a good step forward for the community of Big River.

"We're proud that we've obtained a progressive agreement that takes a big step forward in getting the mill working again.  Big River's mill not only supports the workers employed there, and their families, but the entire community and beyond.  We're committed to working with Carrier to get it operational," says Hallen.

The mill was formerly owned by Weyerhaeuser and by Eacom Timber Corporation.  It has been closed since 2006.

United Steelworkers Wood Council Chair Bob Matters says the agreement is an example of the union working cooperatively with companies to ensure operational competitiveness and shared success.

"Our union is committed to ensuring a vibrant and prosperous forestry industry that provides good, family-supporting jobs, and we'll continue to work with forestry companies to ensure a bright future for this industry."

SOURCE: United Steelworkers (USW)

Paul Hallen, USW Local 1-184, [phone]
Bill Kordyban, Carrier Forest Products, [phone]