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BAILEYVILLE, Maine, Nov. 20, 2023 –In a decisive move, members from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 1490 (District 4), along with 20 Millwrights and 38 oilers and steam and water plant operators from Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 330-3 and Millwrights Local 1121 at Woodland Pulp, a northern Maine wood pulp facility, have overwhelmingly rejected the revised offer from Woodland Pulp and will persist in their ongoing strike that began on Saturday, Oct. 14.
Approximately 22 Machinists Union members, supported by 20 Millwrights and 38 oilers and steam and water plant operators from SEIU Local 330-3 and Millwrights Local 1121, are collectively taking a stand for their job security and striving for a fair contract that upholds their core trades.
The unions engaged in discussions with the company alongside a federal mediator on Wednesday, Nov. 15. However, despite these negotiations, the company’s revised final offer, presented at the end of the day, fell short of meeting the workers’ expectations. In some instances, the changes were deemed regressive compared to the initial offer that prompted the strike.
On Thursday, Nov. 16, the other dedicated union members conducted a vote, with 78 ballots cast across the three unions. Only four members voted to accept the revised offer, signaling a relentless commitment to their cause.
“We have notified the company of our decision and have requested their soonest available dates to resume negotiations in pursuit of a resolution,” said IAM District 4 Business Representative Danny Loudermilk. “Our members remain steadfast in their determination to secure a fair and just contract that safeguards their job security and preserves the integrity of their core trades.”
As the strike enters a critical phase, the united front of IAM members and allied unions stands together in pursuing a contract that reflects our members’ dedication and hard work. Further updates will be provided as negotiations progress.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 active and retired members in the manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, transportation, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.
