Union Says Little Progress Made With Goodyear

(Akron/Tire Review) United Steelworkers say that negotiations with Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. continue, but “progress has been slow.” The union also indicated that some job action may be on the horizon. “Goodyear has not moved from its ‘cut and gut’ agenda. Your bargaining committee has remained steadfast and is determined to achieve a contract that is fair and equitable, that protects our retirees and that provides job security for our members, the union said in a memo to members.

“In the meantime, we continue to work on a day-to-day basis, with 72-hour notice required for either party to end it.” Today, the USW has scheduled “informational rallies” at all Goodyear locals featuring retirees. On Wednesday, the USW’s Steelworker Organization of Active Retirees local presidents will meet with the Goodyear bargaining committee to review contract proposals.

“We are going forward with our strategic bargaining campaign,” the USW said of current talks. “We are also going forward with our strike preparations, in case a strike is necessary to achieve a fair and equitable contract.”