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December 03, 2008


ArcelorMittal Dofasco and steelworkers forge new relationship

A new chapter in steel sector labor relations is unfolding this week between the United Steelworkers and ArcelorMittal Dofasco.

Mr Wayne Fraser director of United Steelworkers Ontario/Atlantic said that a new understanding with the company in Hamilton is enabling employees to discuss opportunities offered by USW collective bargaining. Mr Fraser said that "Dofasco employees will have the space to interact with the union, to talk openly with USW representatives without opposition from ArcelorMittal. If there is support for moving forward, they will then be able to democratically elect a bargaining committee and negotiate with the company.”

He added that "We are confident that can result in a tentative contract. If it does, employees will then vote on being represented by the Steelworkers under the terms of the contract. This initiative is rooted in our union's firmly established collective bargaining relations with ArcelorMittal across Canada and the US."

Mr Fraser said the USW and ArcelorMittal have developed a successful global relationship built on extensive collective bargaining and mutual respect. He said that "The USW represents workers at almost every ArcelorMittal facility in North America. That relationship is an important way to deal with the challenges of the changing global steel industry. ArcelorMittal Dofasco employees now have an open opportunity to choose to be part of that relationship. This process is open, inclusive and democratic. Over the next few weeks we will hear from as many employees as possible about what they want to see protected and what they want to see enhanced at work."

Mr Fraser said the USW will ensure traditional democratic labor rights exist in any eventual collective agreement with ArcelorMittal Dofasco. At this point, the process has no firm completion date but that the next few weeks will be important. He said that "Our union is soon starting important collective bargaining with ArcelorMittal in other locations. We believe we can chart a path for a made in Hamilton collective agreement with our overall relationship with the company as a strong foundation. But it will be up to Dofasco employees, at every step of the way."