Steeling themselves

[Omaha Steve]

Source: mcall.com

Steeling themselves
As Mittal workers brace for sale of the Sparrows Point steel mill, unions play a role in the bidding process.

By Allison Connolly Special to The Morning Call

The third sale of the Sparrows Point steel mill in almost as many years would put any of its workers on edge. But this time, the union that represents workers is considered a valuable third party at the negotiating table.

Buyers need workers' support not only to ensure a smooth transition, but also in navigating the often volatile steel market. And with a number of private equity firms looking at Sparrows Point as an entry point into the lucrative industry, getting the union on their side is key.

''They're up front in the negotiations,'' said John Russo, co-director of the Center for Working-Class Studies at Youngstown State University and co-author of Steeltown USA. ''It's not just a signing off. It's a three-party negotiation.''

Esmark Inc. of Chicago Heights, Ill., is on the short list to buy Sparrows Point from Mittal Steel Company NV of the Netherlands, and has already tried to make inroads with the United Steelworkers of America, which represents workers there.

Read more: http://www.mcall.com/business/local/all-mittalapr07,0,3618426.story?coll=all-businesslocal-hed

[orpupilofnature57]

1. It's that third party , killing the country , cold facts on human beings.