Steelworker locals stand united in Essar Algoma talks

The presidents of the Sault's two largest United Steelworkers Union locals stood shoulder-to-shoulder today at a news conference regarding their contract talks with Essar Steel Algoma.

Mike Da Prat, from Local 2251, and Lisa Dale, from Local 2724, met press representatives at the Quattro Hotel and Conference Centre, as Local 2251 started information meetings preparing for a strike vote next Tuesday.

Da Prat said he expected his membership will provide a clear strike mandate next week.

"We have a mutual support agreement," Da Prat said, referring to the two Steelworkers locals.

Local 2251 represents Essar Algoma's hourly workers.

Local 2724 represents salaried employees.

"We informed the company that we wanted to negotiate monetary (issues) together," Da Prat said.

"What we're looking for here is to show the company that there are common, mutual interests here," added Dale.

"When you're talking about concessions or any kind of monetary issues that could be on the table here, it's better for us to be able to show a joint solid effort where we are going to look after all the people that work there."

Warren Winkler, a former Chief Justice of Ontario appointed to mediate the Essar Algoma contract talks, is on his way to the Sault, Da Prat said.

Until now, Winkler has waited in the wings, stating it was too early to intervene.

Additional information will be added to this story this afternoon.