Sen. Sanders gives support to Momentive strikers in Waterford
December 14, 2016
On Tuesday, the U.S. senator from Vermont wrote to members of IUE/CWA who have been striking outside the plant since Nov. 2, saying their action is "connected to workers all over the country ... At a time when there are so many efforts to divide working people from one another, you are an inspiration."
Sanders also blasted the owners of the Momentive plant on Routes 4 and 32, saying the "profitable company" is trying to take away workers' vacation time, reduce 401(k) benefits, raise health insurance costs and cut retiree benefits.
"Miraculously, Momentive somehow has plenty of money to pay its CEO (Jack Boss) $5.4 million in compensation," Sanders wrote.
More than 700 members of Locals 81359 and 81380 are on strike around the plant's entrances. "We certainly appreciate the letter of support and concern from the senator," said Local 81359 President Dominick Patrignani. "We are going to stand strong and fight for a fair contract."
The plant makes chemical adhesives and sealants, and plant owners are planning to resume production, which was halted during the runup to the strike. Company managers and several hundred newly hired replacement workers are now inside the plant.
Sanders said Momentive's "refusal to negotiate in good faith has put the safety of surrounding communities at risk," wrote Sanders. "No company should be able to endanger public safety in this manner as a tactic to undermine the legitimate claims of the workers."
http://www.timesunion.com/tuplus-business/article/Sen-Sanders-gives-support-to-Momentive-strikers-10796857.php
= new reply since forum marked as read
