UMinn Workers Suspend Strike, Weigh Deal

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/fn/5155343.html

MINNEAPOLIS — Clerical and health care workers at the University of Minnesota abandoned picket lines Friday and will vote on a contract offer that could end their more than two-week-long strike.

Union leadership called the proposal inadequate, but many workers said they may have to accept it because they can't afford to stay off the job.

"I think at this point we really feel like we all need to get back to work," said union member Emily Kreitzer, who still planned to vote against the measure. "We don't make enough money to save up for a strike like this."

Nearly 1,000 workers went on strike Sept. 5. They were to return to work Saturday.

University President Robert Bruininks issued a news release saying the school looks forward to welcoming the strikers back. University spokesman Dan Wolter didn't immediately return a phone call seeking further comment.

Union leaders put out a statement calling the settlement inadequate.

FULL story at link.