Graphic Packaging's closure leaves workers out to dry, says union

TORONTO, July 29, 2013 /CNW/ - Workers at Atlanta-based Graphic Packaging's plant in Brampton are decrying the company for closing shop. Graphic Packaging is planning to close the plant in September, eliminating 150 jobs and having deep impacts on the plant's workers and their families.

"Many employees have spent most of their working lives at this plant and now the US- based company simply wants to vacate without a serious discussion with its workforce," says Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union Ontario Region Vice President Dave Moffat. "We are talking about workers who have put in up to 40 years at the plant and who deserve some say in the plant's closure as well as fair compensation."

The Union has done everything it can to keep the plant running, including accepting 20% wage cuts, reductions in health and pension benefits. Graphic Packaging is a profitable company and its difficulties are due to debt incurred as a result of various mergers and acquisitions.

"Companies have a responsibility towards their employees and the community in which they are," added Moffat.  "Offering recognition and dignity to individuals who have worked in the plant for decades is a small but important gesture to show the company cares. In this case it is clear Graphic Packaging does not."

The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada represents 110,000 members.

SOURCE: COMMUNICATIONS, ENERGY AND PAPERWORKERS UNION OF CANADA

Dave Moffat, 416-460-8443