PITTSBURGH (Nov. 29, 2011)—The United Steelworkers union is condemning Cooper Tire & Rubber Co.'s decision to lock out workers at the company's Findlay, Ohio, plant and may pursue “unlawful bargaining charges” with the National Labor Relations Board.
“These negotiations have been hindered considerably by Cooper's behavior at the bargaining table and the company's determination to instigate a labor dispute,” said Patrick Gallagher, USW District 1 sub-director. “Cooper's intent to test our solidarity became clear the moment the company refused our offer to continue working until we reached a new contract.”
In contrast, Cooper said it offered to extend the expired contract for an additional year with no change in terms, but the USW was unwilling to extend the contract more than 30 days.
USW Local 207L represents more than 1,000 hourly workers in Findlay.