|
|
A Union History
Independent Union
Membership Tough
And Determined In
Strike at Compaction America
Since this article went to press, a settlement has been negotiated and ICEBU members have
returned to work. The strike was settled on December 28th 1998,with an average 12% wage increase in the first year
of the new contract and 3% thereafter. The new contract also features improved benefits in vacations and
insurance.
The Independent Construction Equipment Builder's Union (ICEBU), has been on
strike since October 31 in a determined effort to force Compaction America to honor their
promises to the union. The 150 workers on strike work in the manufacture of heavy
construction machinery.
According to ICEBU President Bob Curry, eight years ago, the former owner, Hyster, was
bought out by Compaction America. At that time the new management insisted on $1.70 in
wage and benefit cuts, but argued everything would get worked out when they were on their
feet. Well now they are on their feet. Sales have gone from $28 million to $130 million.
The union is insisting that the company keep its promise and reinstate insurance for
retirees, reinstate COLA, freeze the insurance premiums and end the 2-tier wage system by
bringing new hires pay up to shop levels. Given that the membership hasn't received a wage
increase in eight years, the union is proposing an 18% wage increase, while the company is
only proposing 10.7%. (editor's note - the cumulative cost of living increase over the
last eight years has been 25.6%.)
The company has gotten an injunction in an effort to severely limit the union's ability
to picket, but the membership is very solid and determined. President Curry notes
"Under the circumstances I'm thrilled the way people are hanging together. Many are
younger workers and have never been on strike before, but they really amaze me. We meet
every Friday night and they are hanging tougher than I ever thought they would."
Any support for the strikers would be appreciated. Checks can be sent to the union at:
ICEBU, PO Box 834, Kewanee, IL 61443.
|
