Foundation Coal Holdings, a Linthicum Heights-based coal company, responded to strike authorization and allegations of unfair labor practices sent out by the United Mine Workers of America, stating the company has been responsive to accusations and at one point was prepared to sign wage agreements.
UMWA president Cecil Roberts issued both the strike authorization and the allegations earlier this week.
The stoppages are slated to happen at Foundation Coal?s operating affiliates Cumberland Coal Resources, Emerald Coal Resources and Wabash Mine Holding Co. Each of these affiliates is a separate and district legal entity.
Foundation says all three affiliates have been in negotiations with the UMWA since January, and that two of them were ready to sign the 2007 National Bituminous Coal Wage Agreement.
“The companies are prepared to respond appropriately to the National Labor Relations Board regarding these allegations,”Michael Peelish, acting bargaining agent, said in a statement.
