IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAN SIMMONS: GCW COKE BATTERIES TO PERMANENTLY CLOSE Printer friendly version | Send this story to a friend
January 20, 2015
Fellow Brothers and Sisters of Local 1899:
As many of you are aware, United States Steel Corporation announced yesterday the permanent shut down of both coke batteries at Granite City Works. This decision was based on a number of factors, including the current downturn in the steel market.
Yesterday, the Union met with management regarding the permanent closure of the batteries, as well as intended reduction of operations throughout the Corporation, including our Granite City Works facility. In addition, the Company informed the Union that it would schedule earlier some outage work originally planned to begin in Spring, so as to coincide with any reduction in operations.
The possibility of reduced turn levels, as well as potential layoffs, are obviously of great concern. Members should be aware that our Basic Labor Agreement provides for a contractual process through a Lay Off Minimization Plan to address these matters.
The Union plans to begin talks between the parties as soon as possible under the terms of the Lay Off Minimization Plan language. Our intent is to do everything feasible to lessen those negatively affected by this unfortunate development.
Furthermore, the Local Union, with the assistance of the International, will pursue in the immediate days ahead all necessary information from U.S. Steel to substantiate any need for a reduction of operations; the impact of such action; the use of outside work entities; and a meaningful program of shared sacrifice by management.
Be assured that your Local will keep you informed, to every degree possible, as we move forward during this difficult period.
on January 20, 2015, 6:28 pm