Talks between the Steelworkers Union and Forest Labour Relations representing a number of lumber mills throughout the Okanagan are apparently stalled again. The two sides met last week at the request of the employers. Steelworkers Kelowna President Pat McGregor says the companies softened their demands somewhat and then the union put forward a counter offer. The employer refused to counter the counter saying the union had not gone far enough in reducing its demands.
Steelworkers Kelowna President Pat McGregor says the talks stalled when the companies said they wouldn't provide an updated proposal. McGregor says "We don't bargain with ourselves so if the phone rings, we'll be there."
This week, the union goes to Prince George for talks with two mills up there. McGregor expects those talks to arrive at the same result as the Kelowna talks, stalled and waiting for the other party to blink.
The union has been in a legal position to strike in the South and Central Okanagan since before Christmas.