COMMENTS FROM STEVE BENOIT, PRESIDENT, USW LOCAL 2-21.
An informational picket was held at two locations in Escanaba this afternoon as workers at the Bishop Noa Home try to reach a new contract with the home’s administration.
The United Steelworkers Union Local 2-21 had its members come to show support for the workers. They gathered and held signs at the intersection of Ludington Street and North Lincoln Road for four hours today, and they walked along the street in front of the nursing home and senior apartment complex.
Bishop Noa Home Administrator Jamie LaFave said that she was not available today for an interview, but issued the following written statement to RRN News.
“While we are disappointed the Union chose to take this course of action, we do not believe it is something a majority of our employees supported and does not change our bargaining position. In that regard, we have always sought a contract that provides our employees with a highly competitive wage and benefit package while ensuring the highest standards of patient care. Thus, while we prefer not to negotiate through the media, I can assure you that we were already working very hard to reach a fair agreement with the Steelworker’s Union and will continue to do so.”
USW President Steve Benoit tells RRN News that the workers at Bishop Noa Home want better pay and insurance, and to “have more of a voice” in how the facility is run.
