Members of IAM Union Local 588 (District 65) ratified a new contract with Garlock Sealing Technologies in Palmyra, New York, on March 12. The agreement secures higher wages, stronger retirement benefits, and improved workplace safety protections for nearly 250 union members.
The ratification ends a strike that began on February 16 after members rejected the company’s previous contract offer. After several weeks on the picket line, workers approved a deal they say reflects their dedication and sacrifices.
“The men and women of IAM Local 588 gave their time, their skills, and their dedication to Garlock for years and they won a contract that reflects that,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “This victory proves that when workers stand together and demand fair pay, a secure retirement, safe working conditions, and affordable health care, they can win. The entire IAM family is proud of our brothers and sisters, and we are grateful for every member who stood on that picket line.”
IAM Union Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan said: “Our members at Garlock have always produced at a high rate, and now they have a contract that recognizes that. The Eastern Territory stood firmly behind Local 588 from day one. Our members never asked for anything that wasn’t fair, and they stayed on those picket lines until they had a contract that gives them the respect and dignity they deserved.”
The new agreement addresses key issues such as wage increases, better benefits, more affordable healthcare options, and enhanced workplace safety standards. Members are expected to return to work in the coming days.
“Our members go to work every day in an environment where safety must be the top priority, and this contract holds the company to that standard,” said IAM District 65 Assistant Directing Business Representative Mark Pankewytch. “Members needed relief from rising healthcare costs and a retirement they could count on. IAM Local 588 members stood on that picket line because they deserved better and they fought for it, and they won.”
