The mediator's proposals will be presented to union members one hour before an April 9 membership meeting where a vote will be taken. Workers who aren't ready to vote at that time can cast their ballots up until 2:00 p.m. the following day.

This comes after union members effectively turned down the company's latest contract offer, after only 50 workers signed unconditional buyout applications. The company sought to get 150 workers earning the top rates to leave in order to hire new employees at a significantly lower wage.

Many workers told thee Militant that they weren't prepared to accept a buyout proposal without knowing what the new contract and wage structure would be.

Others considered the latest buyout proposal to fall far short of their expectations. Some said they're not interested in a buyout because they are fighting against Fletcher's drive to substantially cut the wages and working conditions the union was able to achieve over many years.

Workers who spoke to the Militant explained that they felt like they were being asked to vote with a gun at their heads. Ian McLean, one of the picket captains, pointed out that such threats have been standard procedure for Fletcher's over the years.

Two years ago the company told union members to reopen their contract and accept a 40 percent wage cut or they would close the plant. The proposed cut was similar to that imposed on meat packers at Maple Leaf Foods, Quality Meats, and Fletcher's plant in Red Deer, Alberta, after strikes and lockouts over several months. Workers here rejected the company's demand by a large majority.

Nancy Darlington, a worker on the wiener line, objected to only receiving the contract one hour before voting. "They've had months to discuss this. Why can't we have at least one week? People need time to think about something this important."

McLean agreed that a week was needed to properly consider the proposals. "I'd like to have time to talk among the members to discuss what we're voting on. I'd also like time to discuss such an important decision with my family."

Steve Penner is a meat packer.  
 
 
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