Letter to the Editor: ATI should negotiate in good faith

I support the hard-working members of United Steelworkers Local 1046 in their efforts to fight for good, family-sustaining jobs in our community (“United Steelworkers rally outside Louisville plant,” July 9).

The Louisville community has supported ATI flat-rolled products because everyone values the importance of having good jobs in the area. For generations, J&L Specialty Steel and then Allegheny Technologies workers have dedicated their lives and hard work to produce top-quality products that make ATI a world-class company. We understand that the steelmakers are faced with challenging market conditions. However, ATI is demanding deep cuts that are permanent and would jeopardize local jobs and undermine the next generation of workers.

ATI is demanding that our

neighbors and friends work longer days with reduced overtime pay, dramatic increases in healthcare costs, and severe cutbacks in retirement benefits. Is this how ATI shows its appreciation to the loyalty from the Louisville community and its workers? Over 120 workers sacrifice quality time with their children and work long hours in order to provide for their families. Now ATI is proposing that they keep working long hours but without income security, retirement security and affordable healthcare for their families. This is not what I would like to see for our community and future.

I urge our local leaders and elected officials to call upon Allegheny Technologies to negotiate in good faith with the USW and reach a fair settlement.

JOSEPH STERLING, NIMISHILLEN TOWNSHIP