March 10, 2006 — Teamsters Joint Council 25 reports that negotiators for Ryerson Steel rejected a settlement offer that would have ended the strike against the company.

"We hope that Ryerson will rethink this rejection so we can get back to work while we continue negotiations," said Mike Mezo of the United Steelworkers.

More than 500 workers represented by the Steelworkers Locals 9777 and 6787 and Teamsters Local 714 began an unfair labor practice (ULP) strike Sunday. Ryerson had engaged in illegal activity including illegal surveillance, threats and intimidation. Charges were filed against the company at the National Labor Relations Board on Friday, March 3.

Negotiations have met 14 times since early January. Since the strike began, negotiations have continued, with the next sessions scheduled for this Thursday and Friday.