TORONTO – The workers’ union representing Canadian mining company First Quantum Minerals is on the brink of a strike over a deadlock in wage negotiations. The Panama copper mine, owned by First Quantum, is at the center of the dispute, with union members expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of progress in discussions surrounding profit sharing and salary increases.
Rather than addressing these concerns directly, the company has proposed an alternative incentive plan, which is subject to specific conditions and falls outside the scope of the collective convention. Union members see this as an attempt to divert the focus from their legitimate demands.
Union spokespersons released a statement in Spanish, emphasizing their disappointment with the company’s tactics. They accuse First Quantum of causing the current deadlock by making promises they couldn’t keep and presenting proposals that fall short of expectations. As a result, union members have decided to go on strike, scheduled for Saturday, April 9, at noon.
First Quantum Minerals has yet to respond to requests for comments on whether they plan to make a new offer to the union. The uncertainty surrounding the outcome of these negotiations has affected investor confidence, leading to a 2.4% decrease in First Quantum’s shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
FAQ
Q: What are the main issues causing the dispute between First Quantum and the union?
A: The union is dissatisfied with the lack of progress in negotiations regarding profit sharing and salary increases.
Q: What alternative plan did the company propose?
A: First Quantum suggested an incentive plan, but union members believe it to be a diversionary tactic to avoid addressing their demands directly.
Q: What was the union’s response to the company’s proposal?
A: The union expressed disappointment in the company’s tactics and announced their decision to go on strike.
Q: When is the strike scheduled to take place?
A: The strike is scheduled to start on Saturday, April 9, at noon.
Q: Has First Quantum made any new offers to the union?
A: As of now, the company has not responded to requests for comments on whether they plan to make a new offer to the union.