[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 31, Number 3 (Monday, January 23, 1995)]
[Pages 61-62]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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

[[Page 62]]

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.

Note: This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.