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TOLEDO, Ohio, Oct. 26, 2016 — Nearly 115 International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) members at Libbey Glass in Toledo, OH, who went on strike after overwhelmingly rejecting a so-called “last, best and final offer” (LBFO) from the company, have voted to accept a new contract that holds the line on many membership concerns.
The IAM Local 105 (District 54) members were joined on the picket lines by Glass Molders and Pottery Workers Local 59 at midnight, October 12, when their contract extension expired. IAM members however didn’t return to the plant, instead honoring the picket line of the GMP, who rejected the revised offer from Libbey Glass.
Sticking points in the dispute were working conditions, wage increases, mandatory overtime and a draconian attendance policy. IAM Negotiators remained at the bargaining table to negotiate with management at Libbey Glass, and brought the most recent offer that improved, or removed the company proposals from the agreement to a ratification vote. Just as important, with an aging workforce, company paid health care benefits will be reinstated retroactively to the date the work stoppage began.
“These members proved that we have the power to speak out, demand the elimination of mandatory overtime, fair scheduling, a safe work environment, decent wage increases and good benefits for their families,” said District 54 President and Directing Business Representative T. Dean Wright, Jr. “Three unions exercised their legal rights, and voices in solidarity; I am so proud of the local community, and the local unions of the AFL-CIO for their support during our fight for the working families of Ohio.”
IAM Members will return to work on their assigned shifts beginning at Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2016 at 7 a.m.
The IAM is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 active and retired members in aerospace, transportation, manufacturing, shipbuilding, woodworking and other industries. Visit goiam.org for more information about the IAM.
