Workers strike can-making plant part of a national strike involving 900 employees in eight states

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.dailynews.com/SEARCH//ci_5709173

Workers strike can-making plant
Rexam in Chatsworth brings in outside help
BY JULIA M. SCOTT, Staff Writer
Article Last Updated: 04/19/2007 08:56:36 PM PDT

CHATSWORTH - More than 100 union workers are striking Rexam Beverage Can North America Co.'s plant here as part of a national strike involving 900 employees in eight states.

In a complaint filed with the National Labor Relations Board, United Steelworkers claims Rexam illegally negotiated with individual workers instead of with the union.

"We deny those charges," said Greg Brooke, a spokesman for Rexam. "Even though we're in this strike situation, we are hopeful to resume discussions and end the strike as soon as possible."

The Chatsworth plant employs 105 union workers and makes about 5.5 million cans in 24 hours. Clients include Budweiser and Coke.

A contract covering the workers expired Feb. 24 but was extended twice. Talks for a five-year contract broke down April 9 over health insurance.

Rexam wants workers to contribute more to their health plans, from $8 a week to $21.50 a week in the first year, and to $26.50 and $31.50 each year after, said Mike Warner, president of USW Local 8433 in Chatsworth.

FULL story at link.