BP claims the lockout is important for safety and operational stability at some point of ongoing negotiations, however union representatives claims it undermines workers’ rights and the refinery’s long-term sustainability.
The latest United Steelworkers International president condemned BP for locking out more than 800 employees of its Whiting, Indiana, refinery and known on the corporation to negotiate a honest agreement in good faith.
USW International President Roxanne Brown stated the corporation has increased tensions rather than respecting workers and working towards a fair agreement. Union leaders stated a brand new agreement had to prioritize job security, safety and fair wages after years of inflation.
“BP’s decision to lock out those professional employees is unacceptable and unlawful,” Brown stated. “Generations of union members have kept this refinery running safely and effectively, and they deserve a contract that shows their value— not intimidation methods formed to pressure concessions.”
BP Whiting Refinery Manager Chris DellaFranco stated in a video replace to employees that the corporations proposals were vital to the long-term sustainability of the 137-year-old refinery.
“Since Feb. 1, our refinery has been running in a endured state of labor uncertainty, consisting the threat of a strike with only 24 hours’ be aware,” he said. “This lockout was necessary which will allow a safe and orderly transfer of operations while negotiations continue.”
USW District 7 Director Mike Millsap stated the lockout poses a hazard to the community, as most of the employees with experience running the refinery would not be doing so.
“In its drive to lower staffing level and put into effect wage cuts, BP is selecting conflict and playing the community’s safety on inexperienced replacement employees,” Millsap stated. “This lockout is a direct attack on workers’ rights and an try to weaken the bargaining power of the very people who make this facility successful. We are standing united and will now not back from securing a fair agreement.”
DellaFranco stated the operations of the refinery had been transitioned to trained BP employees who’re capable of safety running the refinery.
“They finished over 80,000 hours of training over the course of the past year,” he said. “During this time, we do not anticipated an effect on our operations or production.”
USW National Oil Bargaining Chair Mike Smith said the union was willing to negotiate.
“Our bargaining committee has been on the table and prepared to engage,” Smith stated. “BP wishes to end this lockout instantly and return to serious negotiations. A fair contract is in reach if the corporation is willing to negotiate in good faith.”
