Quick links+
IAM Union Local 588 (District 65) members recently ratified a new contract with Garlock Sealing Technologies in Palmyra, N.Y., securing fair wages, stronger retirement security, and improved workplace safety protections.
The ratification vote brings an end to a strike that began Feb. 16, after nearly 250 members voted to reject the company’s previous contract offer. After weeks on the picket line, members won a contract that reflects the sacrifices they made.
“The men and women of IAM Local 588 gave their time, their skills, and their dedication to Garlock for years and they won a contract that reflects that,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “This victory proves that when workers stand together and demand fair pay, a secure retirement, safe working conditions, and affordable health care, they can win. The entire IAM family is proud of our brothers and sisters, and we are grateful for every member who stood on that picket line.”
“Our members at Garlock have always produced at a high rate, and now they have a contract that recognizes that,” said IAM Union Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “The Eastern Territory stood firmly behind Local 588 from day one. Our members never asked for anything that wasn’t fair, and they stayed on those picket lines until they had a contract that gives them the respect and dignity they deserved.”
The ratified contract delivers on the core demands members stood united behind, including improvements to wages, benefits, healthcare affordability, and workplace safety standards. IAM Local 588 members are expected to return to work in the coming days.
“Our members go to work every day in an environment where safety must be the top priority, and this contract holds the company to that standard,” said IAM District 65 Assistant Directing Business Representative Mark Pankewytch. “Members needed relief from rising healthcare costs and a retirement they could count on. IAM Local 588 members stood on that picket line because they deserved better and they fought for it, and they won.”
The ratified contract delivers on the core demands members stood united behind, including improvements to wages, benefits, healthcare affordability, and workplace safety standards. IAM Local 588 members are expected to return to work in the coming days.
