Bethlehem's Steelworkers Ratify Contract
Bethlehem Steel Corporation
For Immediate Release
BETHLEHEM, Pa., August 6, 1999 -- Members of the United Steelworkers of America employed by Bethlehem Steel Corporation overwhelmingly approved (6792 to 2048) the contracts covering union members at the corporation's facilities in Burns Harbor, Ind.; Lackawanna, N.Y.; Sparrows Point, Md.; Coatesville, Pa., and Steelton, Pa.
"The new five-year agreements, which take effect immediately, assure an uninterrupted supply of steel for our customers. Also benefiting from the stability of the five-year contracts are our employees, suppliers and communities. We believe the contracts are fair and competitive and in the interests of our employees, customers, suppliers, shareholders and the corporation," said Curtis H. Barnette, chairman and chief executive officer, Bethlehem Steel.
The contracts provide for wage increases of $2 per hour over the life of the contract. Profit sharing is more closely aligned with overall corporate financial performance. Employment security has been retained for employees with three or more years of company service. Health care options have been expanded, and the company and union have agreed to continue their commitment to work together on public policy issues affecting the industry.
The Sparrows Point, Md., and Burns Harbor, Ind., divisions continue to be covered by one agreement, while separate agreements were created for Pennsylvania Steel Technologies in Steelton, Pa., and Bethlehem Lukens Plate in Coatesville.
"We have worked very effectively with the United Steelworkers' leadership to create these contracts that provide numerous benefits for all parties. We will continue to work with the union at all levels to improve safety, quality and competitiveness, and to continue our efforts on major public policy issues such as health care and unfair trade in steel," said Mr. Barnette.
The contracts cover 11,000 employees.