Darlington, PA, June 15--A spokeswoman from Interforest, Ltd., announced a tentative agreement Tuesday with union workers, who have been on strike since May 8, according to the Lisbon, Ohio Morning Journal.
Employees with United Steel Workers of America Local 8183-4 are scheduled to vote on the contract Friday, according to Birdie Nelson, a union representative.
Both sides have stated the tentative contract will give employees a 25-cent raise retroactive to Jan. 1, 2005. Another 25 cents and 30 cents will be added in the next two years.
There also will be some increases in the employees' contributions, but employees working with the company prior to May 2004, when the previous contact expired, will maintain 100 percent coverage. The newer employees will have an 80/20 program, where they will pay part of their health care with the same deductible and co-payments. Doctor visits and emergency care will be paid 100 percent for the new employees, once they reach their deductible and co-pay.
Prescription costs for brand names will increase from $15 to $25 for the employees.
"We're pleased that there is a fair offer on the table," said Tracie Balentine, human resources manager. "Health care is a national concern, and we will still be able to maintain excellent coverage for our employees."
Both Balentine and Nelson stated that the international union and the local union representatives have looked at and approved the contract. However, Nelson points out that both of them approved the other contract Interforest offered in April. The employees turned down that contract.
"They recommended the last contract," Nelson said, noting that it is uncertain whether employees will vote to approve the contract or not. "Majority rules."
Interforest of the Danzer Group produces wood veneers, which can be used in the making of furniture, cabinets and flooring. The company is based in Germany, but also has plants in Ontario, Canada, North Carolina and Darlington, Pa.
Many of the Darlington employees live in Columbiana County.
