Steelworkers Say Ravenswood Shutdown Shows Need for Immediate Economic Stimulus

Pittsburgh – The United Steelworkers (USW) regret that in spite of all the hard work and effort by the workers, W.Va. Governor Joe Manchin and management of Century Aluminum in Ravenswood, W.Va., to keep the plant operating, the union recognizes with deep regret that the three remaining pot lines cannot continue operating under this country’s economic meltdown, resulting in a total of 560 USW members of Local 5668 to be on layoff.

“The aluminum production facility at Ravenswood has contributed to the economic well being of Jackson County for more than 50 years,” said USW International President Leo W. Gerard.  “We are living through the most severe economic downturn since the Great Depression and the hard-working people at Ravenswood are among the latest victims.

“We need to restore confidence in our economy and provide our manufacturing facilities a shot in the arm,” he said.  “We are calling on Congress to take fast action in passing an economic stimulus package that requires taxpayer dollars to be spent on goods and services that are made in the U.S.A.

Century Aluminum has not permanently closed the facility.  Twelve workers remain on the job, maintaining critical functions of the facility and the union remains hopeful that production can be resumed in the near future.  U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller and the W.Va. congressional delegation along with local officials and Century’s suppliers also worked diligently with the USW to make every effort to save the plant.

With aluminum prices down 57 percent from their high last summer, Century found it impossible to continue operating.

###

 

By clicking Sign Up you're confirming that you agree with our Terms and Conditions.

Want to Learn More?

See how the USW is making a real difference in our communities and our workplaces.