Steelworkers Vote for Possible Strike at Cameco

SASKATOON, Oct 4 /CNW/ - Members of the United Steelworkers (USW) employed by Cameco Corporation have voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action to back negotiations toward a new collective agreement.

USW Local 8914 members at Cameco's Key Lake and McArthur Lake operations voted 97 percent in favour of a strike if needed to support contract demands. Vote results were counted Sunday following voting last week.

"This is a very strong mandate for our negotiating position," said USW staff representative Randy Gatzka. "It should send a strong message to the company that they need to put a serious offer on the table."

The union and company have met four times in conciliation between August 31 and September 9. Local 8914 members voted down two previous contract offers from Cameco.

"We believe an agreement is possible without a strike but we need Cameco to help us find it," said Gatzka. "In particular, the company must address the union's issues regarding senior employees in the workforce and we demand that our members be treated with respect and dignity."

For further information:

Randy Gatzka, 604-328-7185