Three more years of Mike Da Prat

Mike Da Prat is back for another three years as president of Essar Steel Algoma's largest union.

Da Prat ran as part of a slate of union executives who were all re-elected by United Steelworkers Local 2251.

Speaking to SooToday after election results were released early this morning, Da Prat said one major challenge faced by the local is a need for stricter enforcement by Ministry of Labour Occupational Health and Safety Act inspectors.

As for the new round of contract negotations due to start next year, Da Prat predicted: "It's definitely going to be an uphill battle."

Contract language, retirement benefits and pensions (defined benefit plan and defined contribution) are expected to be issues.

In keeping with recent practise, rank-and-file members will be polled by early this fall to identify other areas of concern.

"When we develop contract positions it's a comprehensive package," Da Prat said.

This will be Da Prat's fifth consecutive term as president.

He was first elected in 2003 and will now stay in office until 2018.

Four candidates contested the local presidency this year.

Da Prat says incumbents and other candidates were prevented from accessing the plant for campaign purposes.

Other members of the re-elected executive slate announced this morning were: Mark Molinaro (acclaimed as vice president), John Kallio (recording secretary), Rainer Schmitt (financial slate), Marino DeGregorio (treasurer), Krystyna Ferguson (acclaimed as unit chair-clerical.)