Vol. 80/No. 45 November 28, 2016
Momentive workers strike over concession demands
As they set up picket lines, the strikers confronted busloads of what the bosses called “contingency” workers brought in to keep the plant running. Strikers carried picket signs reading, “Robber barons are alive and well” and “Justice for Local 81359.”
The union has accepted concessions in two previous contracts, Local Vice President Darryl Houshower told Socialist Workers Party members who came to show solidarity and join strikers on their picket lines Nov. 4.
“In 2013 we lost pensions,” Houshower said. “This current proposal attacks our health care and offers no raise the first year, with 2 percent raises the following two years. The company is using unskilled replacement workers to handle dangerous chemicals.”
A few days after the strike began, the unionists voted 469-75 against another version of the three-year offer. “Truly, the vast majority of our members have spoken and do not like what we put in front of them,” union President Dom Patrignani told the Albany Times Union.
The new offer is worse than what was already voted down, commented Laurence Case, who works in packaging.
“Most of the workers here are tired of struggling while a small number of rich are doing well,” Houshower said.
“This is not just for ourselves. We are out here fighting for the middle working-class,” said Brandon Gulneck, 23.
“This company does nothing but lie. I don’t foresee this strike being quick,” said Joe Farone, 33, who has worked in the plant for five years. “They are trying to take 1 percent of wages in retirement contributions. Over the course of my working life, it will add up to three quarters of a million dollars. They already took everyone’s pensions.”
The strikers are seeking and extending solidarity. “We sent a delegation of workers to Honeywell, where United Auto Workers members have been locked out,” Case said. The Green Island Honeywell plant is a short drive away.
Related articles:
NY transit workers rally for safety, new contract
On the Picket Line
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