Gap in workload forces BIW layoffs 73 workers affected; union calls on lawmakers to get more contracts

BATH – Bath Iron Works is laying off 73 workers as the shipyard prepares for an approaching workload gap while the Arleigh Burke program wraps up and production of the next-generation Zumwalt destroyer ramps up.

Local S6 President Mike Keenan said Friday that the shipbuilders have done their part to reduce costs. Now it’s up to Maine’s congressional delegation and the shipyard to do their part to keep the contracts coming, he said.

“We’ve become very competitive,” Keenan said. “We’re the only Navy contractor that’s on cost and on schedule. So the members did their part. Now it’s time our delegation does their part. We’re crossing our fingers.”

Friday’s were the first significant layoffs since June, and all 70 of those workers had been recalled, a shipyard spokesman said.

Keenan praised the company for getting creative to reduce the number of layoffs and for letting senior mechanics volunteer for the layoffs to spare those with fewer years of experience who might not be able to afford going without work.

But the shipyard needs more work, he said.

In a joint statement, Republican U.S. Sens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins of Maine said they were “saddened” to learn of the layoffs.

“The men and women of Bath Iron Works are the hardest-working and most dedicated shipbuilders in the world, and it is extremely disappointing to learn that some will lose their jobs through no fault of their own,” the senators said, adding, “We will continue to work closely with the Navy for the workload necessary to continue to produce the finest combat ships in the world.”

Democratic U.S. Rep. Tom Allen of Maine’s 1st District said he spoke Friday with Keenan “to assure him and his members that I will do everything I can to keep work flowing to BIW. These are the finest shipbuilders in the world, and all of us in Maine support them and take pride in their tremendous skill and their outstanding work ethic.”

Even under the best scenario, more layoffs are expected down the road even though the Navy has bumped up the construction timetable of the DDG-1000 Zumwalt. The Navy and BIW are negotiating terms for the final DDG-1000 contract.