Steel Mills

Algoma Workers Approve Strike Vote, Mediation Scheduled

March 1, 2017

Workers at Essar Steel Algoma on Tuesday voted 98 percent in favor of striking if a satisfactory collective bargaining agreement cannot be reached. USW Local 2251, representing, 2100 workers in Sault Ste. Marie, has been working without a contract since July 2016.

Essar Steel Algoma announced that Warren Winkler, the court appointed mediator, has scheduled dates later this month for talks among the company, the successful bidder and union representatives.

Essar Steel Algoma CEO Kalyan Ghosh, commenting on the development, said, “Our focus is on emerging from CCAA as a strong and sustainable advanced steel manufacturer. We remain optimistic that a deal can be achieved among all stakeholders that ensures this outcome.”

In a statement following the strike vote, USW Local 2251 president Mike Da Prat said the members have given the negotiating committee a “very strong mandate” with their vote.

“The members of Local Union 2251 have repeatedly responded to the company’s requests in time of need. By this vote, they have stated emphatically that they are prepared to negotiate a collective agreement that makes sense and is fair to all.

“The members of Local Union 2251 and their bargaining committee are looking for a collective agreement that is fair to all the workers. It is appropriate that the members that have given so much are entitled to a fair collective agreement that provides them a share when the market make the company profitable.”