Vale Inco Newfoundland and Labrador announced Jan. 25 that it will resume production at its mining and milling operations at Voisey's Bay, Labrador.
The Steelworkers represent 120 workers in Voisey's Bay, who have been on strike since Aug. 1, 2009.
The decision to resume production follows a break down in contract talks over the weekend between the USW and the company, the press release said. Training of employees on-site who are not on strike will begin with a resumption of operations to follow when that process is complete.
"Although we would prefer to be operating normally, the local USW negotiating team remains unable to bargain with authority in Newfoundland and Labrador," said Bob Carter, spokesperson for Vale Inco in Newfoundland and Labrador, in a press release.
"As such, the resumption of production is the most responsible course of action for the business. It enables us to provide meaningful employment for the more than 250 employees who are not on strike and it helps meet the needs of our customers who rely on us."
During three days of negotiations, the local USW negotiating team refused to engage in any meaningful discussions on monetary issues, the press release said.
“Once again, the USW remains content to let employees in Newfoundland and Labrador remain on strike as leverage for negotiations out-of-province - a strategy their leaders have acknowledged openly in the past,” said the press release.
In the event it is determined that there is sufficient basis to move forward with meetings at a future date, Vale Inco remains fully prepared to participate. For further information visit www.vinlnegotiations.com.
Check back to NorthernLife.ca for the Steelworkers' reaction as it becomes available.
