The agreement provides a hiring preference for qualified USW-represented workers who apply for new jobs created by USEC Inc. in the commercial ACP. It also provides American Centrifuge Plant workers with an opportunity to decide on union representation through an expedited election conducted by the National Labor Relations Board. The agreement states that USEC will remain neutral in a union organizing campaign but will recognize the USW if a majority of eligible ACP employees elect to join the union.
The agreement also resolves issues regarding the scope of the current collective bargaining agreement between the union and USEC's subsidiary United States Enrichment Corp. by acknowledging that ACP workers would be a separate bargaining unit from employees who work under the union contract at the existing Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant.
"It is imperative to the success of the American Centrifuge Plant that USEC Inc. be able to hire a talented and nimble workforce capable of competing in the ever-changing world market. Our agreement with the USW will help us attract a competent and dedicated workforce to the American Centrifuge Plant, and affords these workers the opportunity to elect USW representation," said Dan Rogers, general manager, American Centrifuge Plant.
"United States Enrichment Corporation enjoys a constructive and positive working relationship with the USW. This agreement continues that cooperative spirit and benefits both the workers and the Corporation," said Wray Jordan, general manager, Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant. The agreement announced today recognizes the common interests of both the companies and the union.
"Today's announcement is important on several levels," said Dan Minter, president of USW Local 689 in Piketon. "This agreement is a significant step for the American Centrifuge Program, which will create cutting-edge-technology jobs in this community and maintain the ongoing vitality of the Piketon site. It also will give the existing workers opportunities to move into these new jobs and learn new skills while allowing USEC to benefit from the human capital of our experienced workforce, whose commitment and ability will help ensure that this site can continue to provide reliable and safe enrichment while maintaining a vital domestic energy source."
USEC Inc., a global energy company, is a leading supplier of enriched uranium fuel for commercial nuclear power plants.
SOURCE: USEC Inc.
Media:USEC
Elizabeth Stuckle, 301-564-3399
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Dan Minter, 740-289-2405
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Steven Wingfield, 301-564-3354