OREANDA-NEWS. On 19 August 2008 was announced, that UC RUSAL ALSCON signed a collective agreement with the Steel and Engineering Workers’ Union of Nigeria, SEWUN, on a new welfare package for its staff. The new package signed after two weeks of negotiations between the management of the smelter and the labour organization includes terms salaries and allowances beneficial for the plant staff.

The 18 month collective agreement comes into effect June 2008.  It spells out agreed details on 42 key issues that range from upward review of basic salary to allowances, medical treatment for staff and dependants, end-of-year bonus, business travel and study leave. The package also includes meals, pension, promotion, training and work hours among others.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Managing Director, Mr. Andrey Partyanskiy said that the agreement offers a comprehensive package of incentives to motivate staff to ensure loyalty, efficiency and productivity adding that UC RUSAL is committed to creating a favourable work environment for its employees and improving the well-being of its staff around the world.

 “Signing of this agreement today marks a milestone in our plant’s history.  It clearly demonstrates our commitment to the welfare of our staff and their families. It also shows our commitment to provide best working conditions for staff to perform their responsibilities without any encumbrances and distractions,” he said. He also commended the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Engr. Patrick Ekpotu for his contributions to the success of the negotiations.

The ALSCON smelter currently employs more than 700 people and when operating at maximum capacity will employ 1,900. This agreement with SEWUN demonstrates RUSAL’s commitment to labour issues, which will be continued as the smelter increases employment levels.