The agreement is the same one that the union sealed with the Bituminous Coal Operators Association and “incorporates all the provisions of [that] agreement,” UMWA president Cecil Roberts said.

“It includes the wage increases, the bonus, the improved pension provisions and continuation of the current health care benefits with no cuts.”

As part of the new deal, union workers will have a $US1.50 per hour increase in pay effective immediately, climbing to a total increase of over $4.00 over five years. The operator has made the increase retroactive to the former contract’s expiration date of February 2.

The 350 represented active miners from the company’s North River operation will also receive a $1000 bonus that was written into the BCOA deal. The numerous retired workers from the mine will benefit in the way of pension improvements, maintenance of health care and other items.

“We are very pleased to have been able to reach this agreement with P&M,” Roberts said. “We look forward to continuing our good working relationship with the company in the coming years.”