Essar Steel Algoma announced late on Wednesday they have reached a tentative agreement with one of their two unions – USW Local 2251. USW Local 2251 represents the hourly workers at the mill and an agreement was believed inevitable after the union leaders did not ask for a strike authorization vote.

The following is the press release put out by Essar Steel Algoma on Wednesday evening:

SAULT STE. MARIE – ESSAR Steel Algoma Inc. today announced that a tentative agreement has been reached with USW Local 2251, the union representing the Company’s hourly workers in Sault Ste Marie. This tentative agreement has been unanimously recommended by the USW Local 2251 bargaining committee.

This non-concessionary tentative agreement provides for responsible monetary improvements recognizing the important role our employees play balanced with the realities of the steel market.

Negotiations continue with USW Local 2724, the union representing the front line management/supervisors, technical and professional staff, with a contract deadline of July 31, 2010.

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