Steelworkers File Unfair Practices Complaint Against Honeywell?s Metropolis Negotiations

The United Steelworkers yesterday filed unfair labor practices charges against Honeywell regarding the Aug. 2 lockout of workers at the Metropolis Works plant in Illinois. USW Local 7-669 filed the complaint with the National Labor Relations Board claiming that the lockout was illegal. “The union alleges Honeywell threatened to permanently replace its union workforce; illegally dealt directly with employees instead of bargaining with the union; and failed to respond to an information request from the union,” according to a USW release. “After gathering information and talking to our members, we found it necessary to file charges with the board,” said USW District 7 Director Mike Millsap.  “Whenever our members are wronged and companies attempt to take advantage of and bully them, we will take action to protect their rights.”

 

Honeywell said yesterday that it had not been notified by the Board or received a copy of the complaint. “However, it is common for unions to file such complaints in the event of a work stoppage. Throughout the entire negotiations, the company has bargained in good faith and complied with all laws and regulations when it comes to bargaining. The company will vigorously defend itself before the board against any such allegations from the union,” Honeywell spokesman Peter Dalpe said in a statement.