ArcelorMittal Canada announces preliminary deal with United Steelworkers

ArcelorMittal Canada, the Canadian subsidiary of the Luxembourg-based integrated steel company ArcelorMittal, has announced a preliminary agreement with striking United Steelworkers in the Quebec region. The deal is on the terms of a potential new collective bargaining agreement. However, the terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Since May 10, around 2,500 ArcelorMittal workers have been on strike, also represented by local residents of the Steelworkers' Association and members of the Quebec Labor Federation (QFL). Striking workers belong to mines, port facilities, rail lines and offices in northeastern Quebec. The strike followed the rejection of the company's "final and comprehensive" proposal, which was voted against by approximately 97-99% of workers.

The deal was reached in a recent round of negotiations in the presence of a mediator appointed by the Federal Ministry of Labor. The approval of the new deal will result in a new collective bargaining agreement that will last for four years.

Mapi Mobwano, President and CEO of ArcelorMittal Mining Canada, said the company is pleased with the result, which is the result of the efforts of both parties as well as the intermediary. The agreement was also welcomed by the Minister of Labor, Jean Boulet.