United Steelworkers Local 6500 president John Fera stated in a release he is “fed up with the antics and negative business processes of their new third world employer, Vale. This is a company that only recognizes dollars – not people."

The statement comes out two weeks before the end of contract negotiations.

“We've seen nothing but pushback from this company and, quite frankly, we're fed up with it,” the release continues. “Our federal Conservative government must have been sleeping when they sold us out to Vale instead of protecting our non-renewable natural resources that now belong to Brazil.”

The release also said, "Our communities should be aware of the consequences of a concessionary contract and should fully understand how it will negatively impact the cash flow into our community.”

"All of the issues that were put on the table in April are still there," said Fera. "When you combine that with the shabby treatment that our members are getting from the company and Services Canada, it's just disgusting. It seems like the company is trying to provoke a fight."

The union would like all members attend an information meeting held at the Garson Arena July 8 at 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. and July 9 at 1 p.m.