Members,
As you will be aware, the current recession is unprecedented in scale and has had a dramatic affect upon world steel prices.
For Corus, this has meant an average drop on the order book of 40%. For some product lines the drop has been as steep as 70%.
It is this drop in demand that has required Corus to adapt to the new economic climate.
Corus employees have made a number of sacrifices in the past months which have been recognised by the unions and the company.
Corus has praised the positive attitude of employees who have helped to identify cost savings across the business.
However, Community believes that further cooperation and support depends upon Corus committing to no further extension or application of the Guaranteed Week Agreement.
Community understands that the recession is placing a strain upon Corus. But Community can not accept Corus, which made a record profit in 2008, using this recession as an excuse to make permanent cuts to long standing terms and conditions.
On Thursday 19th, Trade Union reps. from all over Corus were invited to discuss and endorse a national framework agreement.
This framework will allow your local officials to discuss with the company a range of cost saving measures at each site.
This agreement allows members the freedom to negotiate the best deal for themselves and their colleagues.
Community has worked hard to ensure that this agreement is also a framework which will ensure that these deals achieve three things:
- No more job cuts
- Protect terms and conditions
- Suspend the Guaranteed Week Agreement
Community knows that this recession is hitting our members hard. That is why Community membership will give you a direct say in the process.
These temporary measures will depend upon your support, as each workplace deal which will affect your pay packet or your terms and conditions will be put to a ballot within your branch.
During this period, Community’s national officers will be providing vital support to your branch, but remember: the final say is yours.
Whatever your decision, Community will support you and your colleagues.
Roy Rickhuss
National Officer for Steel
In this issue:
Corus Attack Your Pensions
National Trade Union Steel Co-ordinating Committee (NTUSCC) hear Corus proposals
Living in Denial?
The full issue is available as a PDF download here:
Corus Community Issue 1 2009