IP, USW Ratify New Contract

International Paper Co., Memphis, Tenn., USA, and the United Steelworkers (USW) this week reported that they ratified a four-year Master Agreement contract that covers some 6,000 workers. The new contract includes wage increases in each year of the agreement, improvements to the pension and 401(k), cost stabilization for health care costs, and employment security.

USW members covered by this contract include those represented by local unions in Augusta, Ga.; Campti, La.; Pensacola, Fla.; Courtland, Ala.; Georgetown, S.C.; Pine Hill, Ala.; Port Hueneme, Calif.; Prattville, Ala; Riegelwood, N.C.; Savannah, Ga.; Selma, Ala.; Texarkana, Texas; Ticonderoga, N.Y.; Valliant, Okla.; and, Vicksburg Miss.

"We are pleased that we have reached an agreement that accomplishes IP's bargaining objectives and continues to reinforce and build on the positive working relationship we have established over the past several years," said Paul Karre, IP's SVP of Human Resources and Communications.

USW International President Leo W. Gerard added that "the USW is extremely proud of the progress made by our members in the paper sector. Strong leadership and solidarity at each of the locations was vital to reaching this agreement at IP. The success of our local unions here sets a precedent for bargaining in the rest of the industry."

TAPPI
http://www.tappi.org/