SK Hand Tool workers end strike, get health insurance

Union workers at SK Hand Tool Corp. who went on strike over its withdrawal of health insurance said Wednesday they've accepted a company proposal to restore the coverage.

Teamsters Local Union 743, which represents about 70 workers at the company, said members voted by a three-to-one ratio to accept a contract offer and return to work.

The members also accepted a wage reduction of about 20 percent in the first year of a three-year contract. Richard Berg, president of Local 743, said the concession will help a struggling company get back on its feet.

"Because we are Teamsters and willing to fight, we're now the only employees at SK with health insurance. This is something that all Americans should have," said Emilio Lunar, SK steward and strike leader.

SK workers began the strike in August. It drew national attention and the company faced pressure from politicians to settle.

The company unilaterally ended health coverage May 1 during contract talks.

Employees were forced to pay substantial sums for prescription drugs and medical services on their own.

Berg said the agreement includes no provision to repay costs workers incurred since May 1. He said slight pay increases were negotiated for the new contract's second and third years.

Bella Keigher, human resources vice president at SK, said workers will return starting Friday.

The SK strike involved the company's main location at 3535 W. 47th St. and a recently closed distribution center in McCook.

SK was founded in 1921. The Teamsters said its union has had representation there since 1968.