Laborers strike Independent Pipe for health and pension payments
St. Louis County – Members of Laborers Local 110 went on strike May 13 against Independent Concrete Pipe’s plant here, saying they are seeking only a modest contribution to their health care and pension benefits.
“They’ve already spent more on attorneys than this would have cost,” Steve MacDonald, business representative for Laborers Local 110, said.
All 10 Laborers who have been working at Independent Pipe were on hand for picketing, along with some of the six workers who have been on layoff recently. Many passers-by waved or honked in support.
Contract negotiations began in October, and the Laborers have been working without a contract since January. They are not seeking a wage increase, but they do want the company to increase its support for health insurance and pensions by 44 cents an hour. The talks have gone to mediation. MacDonald said the company has not provided documentation of its claim it is losing money.
http://labortribune.com/laborers-strike-independent-pipe-for-health-and-pension-payments/