United Steelworkers Ratify Three-Year Agreement with Essar Steel

Union calls for negotiations to resume in U.S. Steel lockout

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON, July 10, 2013 /CNW/ - While U.S. Steel continues its attack against United Steelworkers (USW) Local 8782 in Nanticoke, USW members in Sault Ste. Marie have won a three-year agreement with Essar Steel Algoma Inc.

The agreement between Essar and USW Local 2251 in Sault Ste. Marie maintains cost-of-living adjustments and improves a number of benefits. The contract term is from Aug. 1, 2013 to July 31, 2016.

USW Local 2251 members will see increased coverage for visits to chiropractors, osteopaths, podiatrists and naturopaths, as well as an increase in lifetime major medical coverage for active employees and retirees. Retired Steelworkers will also see increased reimbursement for the cost of glasses and hearing aids.

Along with cost-of-living adjustments, employees will receive a lump-sum payment in the second year of the contract and wage increases in the third year of either two or three per cent - depending on the steelmaker's adjusted annual income.

The union won the company's commitment to a defined benefit pension plan and the agreement provides four 'windows' for retirement during the life of the contract.

"This is good for our members in Sault Ste. Marie," said USW Ontario Director Marty Warren.

"It's time now for U.S. Steel to end its seven-week lockout and get back to the bargaining table with our members in Nanticoke."

SOURCE: United Steelworkers (USW)

Contact: Jack Ostroski, USW Area Co-ordinator, 705-941-1224, [email protected]