Canada: Workers Express Frustration and Concern Over Future Operations at Kiewit Facilities

June 22, 2011

The union representing workers at Kiewit Infrastructure Inc., which operates the Marystown Shipyard in Marystown, Newfoundland and Labrador, are today expressing frustration and concern over future operations at the Kiewit facilities.

Wayne Butler, President of CAW/Marine Workers Federation (MWF), Local 20, said that all unionized workers at the facilities have been given lay-off notices, and there are no indications that the company is pursuing future work prospects. “There was bitter disappointment and concern when Kiewit walked away from the federal government procurement contract, which potentially could have provided a $35 billion contract and more than three decades of work to the successful bidder,” Butler said. “It looks now, like they may be preparing to walk away from a potential ten-year provincial ferry replacement program for Newfoundland and Labrador. The company has also requested that the union re-open the collective agreement two years into a three-year deal,” Butler added. “With the lack of work in the facilities and on the order books, discussions of this kind are very difficult.”

The CAW/MWF is now in the process of setting up meetings with its membership on Thursday of this week. CAW/MWF Local 20 represents more than 350 skilled trades workers.

The union will also be requesting a meeting with community leaders on the Burin Peninsula, the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and as well MHAs from this region to discuss the seriousness of this situation and what it means to the economic base of not only the Burin Peninsula, but to the entire province as well, Butler said.

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Source: newswire, June 22, 2011; Image: townofmarystown