USW Prepares to Assist Members at NewPage Following Company’s Bankruptcy Filing

For More Information: Wayne Ranick (412) 562-2444, wranick@usw.org

(Pittsburgh) – The United Steelworkers (USW) released the following statement today after being notified that NewPage Corp., the largest North American maker of coated papers, filed for bankruptcy six years after being bought by Cerberus Capital Management LP:

“The USW is not surprised by this announcement as the union has been closely monitoring the performance of the company for the past year,” said USW International Vice President Jon Geenen. “In order to protect the interests of the workers and retirees we represent, we are moving quickly to assemble our team so that we can be an active party to all aspects of reorganization.”

“We have begun to consult with our legal and financial experts as well as our Local Union officials about next steps. We also expect to seek a seat on the Creditors’ Committee once that body is formed.  Our approach in bankruptcy cases is to work with employers and other stakeholders that are willing to work constructively with us in order to preserve secure jobs for our members and secure benefits for our retirees.”

The USW represents 850,000 members in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. It is the largest private sector union in North America, representing workers in a wide range of industries including metals, mining, rubber, paper and forestry, glass, oil refining, plus office, technical and service workers in health care, university and public sector.

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