Steelworkers Union Responds to Esmark Statement on Arbitrator Ruling
06/25/2008 - The United Steelworkers issues a statement that arbitrator Richard I. Block's decision had upheld the USW's contractual "right to bid" against Esmark's willful violation of the collective bargaining agreement.
In response to Esmark Inc.’s announcements regarding arbitrator Richard I. Block's decisions regarding the USW’s grievance against the company, the United Steelworkers issued a statement that Block's decision had upheld the USW's contractual "right to bid" against Esmark's willful violation of the collective bargaining agreement.
The USW’s statement noted that “the arbitrator made clear, in no uncertain terms, that the company violated its USW contract when Esmark entered into its Memorandum of Agreement with Essar Steel Holdings, Ltd.”
The USW said that Block ordered the Memorandum rescinded and made clear that it is of no force or effect.
According to the USW, in his formal award, the arbitrator stated clearly and unambiguously, “The grievance is granted. As remedy, the April 30 memorandum is to be set aside.”
