    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book I)]
    [January 13, 1995]
    [Page 47]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Dispute Between Bridgestone-Firestone and the
    United Rubber Workers
    January 13, 1995

        I have long supported legislation to prevent companies from
    permanently replacing their striking workers. Unfortunately, last year a
    minority of Senators prevented the full Senate from voting on the bill.
        Now Bridgestone-Firestone's use of permanent replacements shows
    exactly why this protection is necessary. By bringing in permanent
    replacements for their workers who are on strike, while refusing to come
    to the bargaining table, the management of Bridgestone-Firestone is
    flagrantly turning its back on our tradition of peaceful collective
    bargaining to solve labor disputes. When companies replace their workers
    under these circumstances, they sow seeds of distrust and resentment
    which can extend far beyond their company, undermining labor-management
    relations across the land. Bridgestone-Firestone should get back to the
    bargaining table with the United Rubber Workers to reach a fair
    settlement. Secretary Reich and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation
    Service stand ready to help. Let's get on with it.