Nov. 22, 2006 — The United Steelworkers (USW) welcomed the announcement that Evraz Group will purchase of Oregon Steel Mills.

“We believe that this acquisition will improve our members’ job security,” said USW International President Leo W. Gerard. “They have the money to modernize the equipment and they are willing to make the investment necessary to make CF&I/Rocky Mountain Steel in Pueblo, Colo., competitive in a global market.”

The USW and Oregon Steel were engaged in a 78-month labor dispute before the contract was settled in May 2005.

“Our relationship with the current management has improved dramatically since then,” said USW District 12 Director Terry Bonds from his office in Albuquerque, N.M. “This company is committed to the production of long products and I believe that capital improvements will secure our future.”

USW Local 2102 represents some 600 workers at the Pueblo mill.

“Our members are united and willing to work with the new company,” said Local 2102 President Randy Padilla. “We’ve got an experienced and dedicated work force and our commitment is to continue producing a world class product.”

The acquisition is expected to commence during the week of November 27, 2006, according to information received from the company.