Wood Council

The USW Wood Council was formed when the Executive of the IWA selected the United Steelworkers and negotiated a merger that took effect on September 1, 2004. A critical part of the merger negotiations was the creation of the Steelworkers IWA Council, representing and coordinating the interests of the former IWA local unions in the areas of safety and health, collective bargaining, organizing and political action. By 2006, the IWA Council adopted the moniker "Wood Council."

Wood Council Chairperson Bob Matters Contact Wood Council

Latest News »

Aug 15, 2017 ·

Steelworkers Contribute $100,000 to B.C. Fire Relief

"This support is possible thanks to contributions by thousands of USW members across Canada and the USW National and District offices." - Ken Neumann said.

Jul 28, 2017 · Media Release ·

Stop Log Exports; Invest in B.C.

In the wake of yet another closure of a B.C. sawmill due to lack of logs, the USW is seeking a fresh approach from the new B.C. government.

Jun 30, 2017 · Huffington Post ·

Liberals’ Enthusiasm For China Trade Deal Should Raise Alarms

Since the Liberals were elected in 2015, concern has grown across the country over this government's behaviour on investment, trade and other issues regarding China. Opinion piece in the Huffington Post by USW National Director Ken Neumann.

Jun 15, 2017 ·

Steelworkers Return from Washington: Everyone Wants a Negotiated Softwood Settlement but Path Forward Is Unclear

“Our experience has shown us that an agreement is possible, the only way forward is to get our governments back to the negotiating table.” - Bob Matters, USW Wood Council

Jun 12, 2017 ·

Canadian Forestry Workers Tell U.S. Officials: A Fair Softwood Agreement Is a Negotiated One

"We have a long history of working together and we are here this week to advocate for a fair deal that will benefit both Americans and Canadians." - Bob Matters, USW Wood Council

Jun 01, 2017 ·

Support for Canada’s Forest Industry and Communities the Right Thing to Do – for Now: Steelworkers

“We need long-term commitments to workers and families, alongside a sustainable industry.” - Ken Neumann

Apr 27, 2017 · CBC Up North ·

USW’s Leo Gerard on Softwood and Unfair Trade

It’s a “bunch of greedy transnational companies, some of which are Canadian, operating on both sides of the border.”

Apr 27, 2017 ·

Leo Gerard Standing Up for Canadian Workers

USW International President Leo W. Gerard speaking to CBC’s Chris Hall on trade, Trump and standing up for Canadian steel and forest workers.

Apr 25, 2017 ·

Steelworkers Demand Government Counter Softwood Lumber Tariffs that Will Damage Canadian Industry, Hurt Working Families

“We need decisive action. A fair softwood lumber agreement that provides good paying jobs, supports local communities and produces sustainable forests is possible.” - Ken Neumann

Mar 22, 2017 ·

Budget Pledges to Strengthen Trade Remedy Process, but More Must Be Done: Steelworkers’ National Director

“By providing unions with the right to file and participate in trade remedy complaints, Canadian producers will benefit in any trade case.” - Ken Neumann