Connecticut members of the Teamsters union are expecting tough negotiations with Stratford-based helicopter manufacturer Sikorsky Aircraft as the two sides bargain for a contract in the worst economic downturn in decades.
Rocco Calo, secretary-treasurer of Local 1150, said on the union’s Web site that winning a contract in negotiations that began recently will be an “uphill battle.”
He said the two parties have had a “strained relationship” since a six-week strike by the Teamsters in 2006 and that company officials have reminded Teamsters negotiators of the weak economy and layoffs among manufacturers.
A message seeking comment was left with Calo.
The current contract, which expires Feb. 15, covers about 5,000 workers.
Sikorsky said in a statement it has entered into discussion “with a win-win attitude.”
“The company is committed to bargaining in good faith to reach an agreement that provides continued economic stability and good jobs for our employees and their families while allowing the company to remain competitive and grow,” it said.
Workers narrowly approved the current contract in April 2006, agreeing to the same health care cost-sharing plan that was at the center of the strike against Sikorsky, the manufacturer of the Army’s Black Hawk and other helicopters. (AP)
