Oregon Public Broadcasting

A threatened strike by the United Steelworkers union against U.S. oil processors would affect the majority of the Northwest’s oil refineries.

The labor contract expired over the weekend.  However negotiations between the union and oil company representatives resumed Monday.  The ongoing talks have brought a rolling 24-hour delay for any work stoppage.  Correspondent Tom Banse reports.

ConocoPhillips Ferndale Refinery

A strike would affect workers at three of the five major refineries that supply gas stations in western Washington, Oregon, and parts of California.

Also involved are unionized refineries in Montana and Utah that supply the inland Northwest.

In Anacortes, Shell refinery spokesman Brian Sibley is hopeful a walkout can be avoided.

Brian Sibley: “Shell continues to meet with representatives of the United Steelworkers union and we are optimistic that a mutually satisfactory agreement can be reached."

Via e-mail, United Steelworkers spokeswoman Lynne Baker says progress is being made, but offered no details on remaining sticking points. 

If it comes to a strike, the effect on fuel prices and supply is uncertain.  The oil companies have said previously that they’ll continue refinery operations using managers and replacement workers.

Online:

United Steelworkers Union – oil negotiations

Shell Oil USA