Edison, NJ – A heated dispute has erupted in Edison, over the use of non-union labor at the JP Stevens High School expansion project. Ironworkers Local 11, which is led by 1st International Vice President and Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Steven Sweeney has taken to the streets with a giant inflatable rat, a symbol of their discontent with the decision to hire non-union company Impacts Steel Erectors..
The union alleges that Bismarck, the general contractor for the project, subcontracted the ironwork to Impact Steel Erectors, a non-union company. This decision has drawn the ire of Local 11, which claims that the use of non-union labor could lead to lower wages, less comprehensive benefits, and potentially unsafe working conditions.
“We are here today to send a clear message that we will not stand idly by while our livelihoods are threatened,” said a spokesperson for Ironworkers Local 11. “Using non-union labor on a project of this scale undermines the standards we have fought for and puts the safety and well-being of workers at risk.”
The union is calling on Bismarck to reconsider its decision and award the ironwork contract to a unionized company. They argue that union contractors are more likely to provide fair wages, comprehensive benefits, and adhere to strict safety standards.
In September 2022, Bismarck Construction Corp. faced repercussions for hiring an unregistered subcontractor. A site inspection conducted by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development resulted in a stop-work order being on a construction job at John Faber School in Dunellen.
The protest has drawn attention to the ongoing debate over the use of non-union labor in the construction industry. While some argue that non-union companies can offer competitive pricing, others express concerns about the potential impact on workers’ rights and safety.
The JP Stevens High School construction project is a significant undertaking, with DMR Architects serving as the project’s architect. The project is expected to provide much-needed upgrades and expansions to the school’s facilities. However, the ongoing labor dispute has raised questions about the project’s commitment to fair labor practices.
As the protest continues, it remains to be seen whether Bismarck will reconsider its decision regarding the ironwork contract. The outcome of this dispute could have significant implications for the future of labor relations in Edison.
