Steelworkers say mediated talks with U.S. Steel continue

Blast furnace being tapped (Photo: U.S. Steel)

HAMILTON -- The union that represents most employees of U.S. Steel Canada says that mediated talks with the company are continuing behind closed doors, ahead of a public court hearing that's expected to be held next week.

Leaders of United Steelworkers locals in Hamilton and Nanticoke, Ont., say in a statement that the parties cannot provide details of what has been discussed during five days of talks in Toronto.

They say the discussions will continue and called on Steelworkers members, retired members and supporters to attend a public hearing before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice on Oct. 7 and 8.

The union is opposing U.S. Steel Canada's request for permission to stop paying for certain benefits to retirees and its request to stop making certain contributions to the pension plan.

U.S. Steel Canada Inc. said on Sept. 17 that it will seek a court order to continue restructuring under court protection beyond this year. The process began in September 2014 and its protection has been most recently extended to Dec. 11.

The former Stelco Inc was purchased by U.S. Steel in 2007. It has been unable to negotiate a sale of its operations, or reach a restructuring agreement with its creditors.