UAW Keeps Heat on Revere Copper

From left: James August, Joe Paczosa, Lenny La Marche, Bob Cunha, Mike Schippani (UAW Research Department), Lenny Rocha, and Bob Madore (Region 9A assistant director).

Eighty-four members of Local 168 have been on strike against the New Bedford, Mass., division of Revere Copper Products since May 1.

Revere Copper Products is demanding $1.5 million over three years in concessions from its workers. The strike issues center on changes in contract language that would seriously affect seniority and the right to job bidding. The company is also trying to force a work week of 10-hour days, four days a week and 12-hour days on the weekend.

The members continue to hold strong and have enjoyed the support of Region 9A Director Phil Wheeler and Assistant Director Bob Madore as well as UAW local unions in the area.

At the Region 9A Joint Conference held in May, an appeal for contributions was made to support the strike at Revere. It was generously supported by the local union members and international staff in attendance.

A meeting was held with the federal mediator and the company in June where another offer to return to work was made and refused by the company. No future meetings have been scheduled as of date of publication.

Vinnie Ofria
UAW Local 168

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