ASHLAND (Scrap Monster): The union members belonging to United Steelworkers will vote today on the tentative agreement put forward by the company as a solution to end the one-month long lockout at Century Aluminum’s Hawesville, Kentucky smelter. If ratified by the union, workers are expected to return to work on Monday.
A tentative five-year deal was reached between USW Local 9423 and the company management after a series of negotiations in the presence of a federal mediator. According to company spokesperson, the new deal offers 2.75% raise in wages over four years. In addition, craft will be given an additional $1.50 base wage hike.
Informal meetings and voting will be held at the Lewisport Community Centre. The first meeting is scheduled at 9 AM, followed by a second one at 5 PM. The result of the vote would be announced before midnight. According to top union officials, the members will have the final decision on the agreement. If the agreement is approved, members belonging to the union will report to work on Monday, June 15th, 7 AM CDT. He termed the new offer as ‘improved one’ when compared with the earlier offer made by the company on April 25th. Meantime, company spokesperson clarified that the deal is for five years, but declined to elaborate further.
Earlier in May this year, nearly 500 employees were locked out after voting against a new contract over differences of opinion with reference to forced overtime and retiree health care benefits.
Century Aluminum’s Hawesville operations have a production capacity of 244,000 mt per annum. In addition to this, the company owns and operates 205,000 mt/year Sebree smelter about 50 miles away in western Kentucky; the 224,000 mt/year Mt. Holly smelter in South Carolina; and the 260,000 mt/year Grundartangi smelter in Iceland. Century's corporate offices are located in Chicago, IL.
