The move is expected to offset some layoffs.
MARQUETTE COUNTY -- The United Steelworkers Union and Cliffs Natural Resources have reached an agreement that is expected to soften the blow of recent layoffs.
The agreement provides the immediate option of an enhanced retirement for all employees who are eligible to retire on or before June 30, 2009. The agreement also has a voluntary layoff option for an additional 124 employees.
Twenty maintenance workers are also being temporarily recalled. The union says the overall agreement has the potential to offset up to 194 of the 411 employees projected to lose their jobs.
The parties have also negotiated a reduced rate for medical services for employees on layoff who will be without health insurance. The benefit will be available through the Cliffs Clinic at Bell Hospital.
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