IAM Union Local 588 members at Garlock Sealing Technologies in Palmyra, New York, have been on strike since February 16. The strike began after contract negotiations between the union and the company failed to reach an agreement that meets workers’ demands for better wages, stronger retirement benefits, improved safety measures, and relief from increasing healthcare costs.
Nearly 250 union members voted to reject Garlock’s latest contract proposal before starting the strike. According to IAM Union International President Brian Bryant, “The men and women of IAM Local 588 have given their time, their skills, and their dedication to Garlock for years, and they deserve a contract that reflects that. Our members deserve fair pay, a secure retirement, safe working conditions, and affordable health care. The entire IAM family stands in solidarity with our brothers and sisters on the picket line, and we will use every resource at our disposal to help them win the contract they have earned.”
IAM Union Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan stated support for the striking workers: “Our members at Garlock have produced at a high rate over the years. The Eastern Territory stands firmly behind Local 588. Our members are not asking for anything that isn’t fair, and we will remain on the picket lines until we have a contract that gives respect and dignity.”
Mark Pankewytch, Assistant Directing Business Representative for District 65 of IAM, commented on workplace safety concerns: “Our members go to work every day in an environment where safety should be the top priority. The company must do more to help members keep up with the cost of living. Healthcare costs continue to climb, and retirement security is being eroded. IAM Local 588 members are on that picket line because they deserve better, and they are going to fight for it.”
Discussions between IAM Local 588 representatives and Garlock Sealing Technologies are ongoing as both sides try to reach an agreement addressing these issues.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers represents about 600,000 active and retired workers across several industries in North America.
