In a statement, the company said that it has been bargaining in good faith with United Steelworkers Local 13679, and had reached an agreement on parts of a new deal. However, it said that they have not been able to come to terms on two main issues: wages and health benefits. 

The company said it has offered pay and incentive increases that would take wages from US$20 to US$24 an hour to US$22 to US$26 an hour. 

“We believe our final proposal would secure current jobs and put the company in the best position to add additional jobs in the future while at the same time providing our employees a generous compensation package,” the company said. 

The union, however, decried the lockout. 

“All workers deserve family-supporting wages, affordable health care and respect on the job. That is what these workers are seeking at the bargaining table. The company, sadly, would rather force their own hard-working employees out on the street than negotiate a fair contract that meets those fundamental needs,” it said.