The Stel Salaried Pensioners Organization wishes to thank The Hamilton Spectator for permission to post the following Letter To The Editor published in the March 4, 2005 edition

Mar. 4, 2005. 12:28 AM

Guide to a healthy Stelco

By Barry Smith, Stoney Creek
The Hamilton Spectator

Many are heralding Stelco's decision to go it alone, but before we all jump on the bandwagon, let's take a closer look at what's going on here.

Stelco must now face its $1.3-billion pension deficit and raise millions more for plant upgrades in order to remain competitive. There will be enormous pressure to cut costs and become more efficient. These efforts will likely strain already poor relations with its unions.

Here are some suggestions to get Stelco headed in the right direction:

* Develop a professional, business-like relationship with its unions.

* Get the unions involved and responsible for improving efficiencies in the workplace.

* Continue to reform antiquated, excessive management systems.

* Motivate and energize a complacent, underachieving workforce. Introduce some younger people.

Stelco's lifeline of record high steel prices is starting to fray, it is time to make the most of this opportunity before it is too late.