The unionists are organizing a solidarity rally for April 22. In a picket line interview strike leader Gary Anderson explained, "What good does it do to just sit here? We're sending out flyers to all union work sites. We want to have all those different unions here, and talk about how to build support."

Wages and health-care benefits are key demands. Anderson reported that 90 percent of the strikers were earning less than $10 per hour before the walkout. "Jobs here pay $4 to $5 less per hour than comparable work at other plants," added another picket.

On March 10 the company presented its final offer to union negotiators. Under this proposal, like the initial one rejected by a vote of 162 to 1, wage increases still fail to cover hikes in health insurance costs the company demands workers must pay. In addition, Smurfit bosses refuse to commit in writing to limits on mandatory overtime. Pension benefits are another issue in the strike. Under the old agreement, workers with 20 years of service receive only $275 per month in retirement benefits.

On March 29 the strikers participated in a rally to support Teamsters on strike against Contract Transport Inc. The company hauls mail for the U.S. Postal Service.

The picket line at Smurfit-Stone is a lively place, with cars and trucks honking horns in support of the Teamsters almost constantly. Across the street is a college, the American Institute of Business. Anderson said that some of the students, "who don't have a union background," have harassed Local 147 strikers. Others, such as factory workers from General Electric attending the school for retraining, have come over to ask how they could help. On April 4 the union was scheduled to appear in court over a company-led effort to further restrict picketing at the struck plant.

A striker summed up the situation: "The company is not talking because they're afraid what might happen at their other plants if we win."

Ray Parsons is a member of United Steelworkers of America Local 310 in Des Moines.  
 
 
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