Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien joined locked-out workers at Mauser Packaging Solutions Monday morning, demanding the company end what union officials called “shameless union busting” and return to contract negotiations.
The company locked out 20 members of Teamsters Local 117 who repurpose steel barrels at its Industrial Container Services facility on April 14 during ongoing contract talks. Workers have maintained a picket line at the facility since the lockout began.
“When a multinational bully like Mauser tries to break our union and crush working people, the Teamsters don’t stand by — we fight back with everything we’ve got,” O’Brien said at the rally.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and King County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda spoke in support of the workers, calling for a resolution that addresses their concerns.
“These workers do difficult jobs every day to help keep our Seattle economy moving forward and support our communities,” Harrell said. “It’s time to reach a contract resolution rooted in the respect that these workers deserve.”
Workers cite safety concerns and reduced hours
Union members claim the company drastically cut working hours before negotiations began, despite management’s assertions that business had slowed.
Josue Calvario, who has worked at Mauser for five years, described hazardous working conditions involving exposure to toxic fumes and dust from the barrels.
“All we are asking for is livable wages and sustainable hours to help pay our bills and keep a roof over our heads,” Calvario said.
Paul Dascher, secretary-treasurer of Local 117, emphasized that the union intends to maintain pressure on the company until it addresses worker concerns.
“We’re not backing down until Mauser does right by its workers,” Dascher said. “That means ending this lockout immediately.”
Teamsters Local 117 represents over 17,000 workers across Washington state in approximately 200 workplaces.
