The United Steelworkers (USW) condemned Cooper Tire and Rubber Co.'s decision to lock-out USW Local 207L workers at the company's Findlay, Ohio, production facility on Nov. 28, despite what the union says was a good faith offer to keep working while negotiations toward a new labor contract proceeded.
(To read about the lockout from Cooper's point of view, click here.)
Three USW officials weighed in on the situation.
1. USW District 1 Director Dave McCall says he expects the union to pursue unlawful bargaining charges against Cooper with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). He adds that the union is still committed to negotiating a fair contract in Findlay.
2. USW District 1 Sub-Director Patrick Gallagher says the negotiations "have been hindered considerably by Cooper's behavior at the bargaining table and the company's determination to instigate a labor dispute. Cooper's intent to test our solidarity became clear the moment the company refused our offer to continue working until we reached a new contract."
3. USW Local 207L President Rod Nelson says his members "are proud of their longstanding relationships with Cooper's loyal customers. We urge Cooper management to return to negotiations at once so that these relationships are not strained."
USW Local 207L represents more than 1,000 hourly workers in Findlay.
