Construction Maintenance & Turnarounds Fabrication Equipment & Specialty Services
News & Media

<< Return

A Message To Our Clients Concerning Recent EEOC Claims - Friday, April 16, 2010

April 16, 2010


Dear Turner Industries Client:

As you may be aware, the EEOC has issued certain findings relative to our Paris, Texas fabrication plant. We strongly disagree with the EEOC's findings, and we are defending our employment practices at that facility, as well as any job site that may be mentioned. The EEOC will invite us to a meeting in the near future, and we shall welcome that opportunity to show them that our work places are free of harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation.

Because of the personal and professional relationships we have forged with you, we are concerned that you might be misguided by any negative inferences or portrayals in the media. We are committed to providing you with as much information as you require that will assist you in sorting through the information being disseminated.

I am disappointed by the images displayed in the media this week and the suggestion that Turner Industries employees were responsible. Despite a thorough investigation more than a year ago, extensive internal measures implemented, and an ongoing vigilance on these matters, we have yet to identify the person or persons responsible.

Considering the serious nature of these accusations, we are taking the following measures to address this issue:

1. An investigation has been launched to determine if the images that have been displayed this week are new or old and to investigate all evidence;

2. We are scheduling meetings with both national and local civil rights leaders for advice and counsel on this matter;

3. We are implementing a more aggressive diversity program to further ensure that our workplace is inclusive to all, and is free of harassment, discrimination and retaliation. This shall further advance our goal of being a champion for diversity.

The images and information being depicted in news accounts are completely contrary to our core values and beliefs. That is not the Turner Industries you know, nor is it the Turner Industries that has built a reputation for the last 50 years of serving our clients while insisting on fairness and equality for all of our workers. Some of our diversity efforts are described on the appendix to this letter.

As a result of last year's investigation, no employee interviewed was found to be a victim of harassment or discrimination. In addition, no one was subject to retaliation. One of the misrepresentations portrayed in media reports is that employees who complained were fired. That quite simply is false. Any terminations were completely unrelated to any complaints or statements, and were based solely and exclusively upon excessive absenteeism, substance abuse, and performance issues. Facts supporting those terminations are clearly and indisputably documented in the employment records of those individuals.

We know you are concerned about these EEOC findings and the subsequent media reports. We will demonstrate to you that your trust and faith in us is well placed. Never hesitate to contact anyone in senior management, nor any of your contacts at Turner Industries. We welcome the opportunity to visit with you face to face as well.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,


Roland M. Toups


APPENDIX

Summary of Turner Industries' Diversity Initiatives and Presence in Paris, Texas:

We are committed to and have been a leader in promoting diversity not just in the work place, but in the community as well. For many years, we have partnered with many minority organizations, such as 100 Black Men, the Museum for African American History, and the Dubose Music Festival. We have also worked extensively with the Paris chapter of the NAACP in promoting diversity throughout the community. Turner Industries volunteers have thoroughly enjoyed participating in and working with these outstanding organizations.

We have been in Paris, Texas for eleven years. We purchased and re-furbished an old Babcock & Wilcox plant. We have made capital investments into our Paris operation of almost $20,000,000. We have put thousands of people to work - including some who experienced difficulties and paid their debts to society. Early on, the Paris Economic Development Council asked us specifically to provide working opportunities to those who have served time in prison. We obliged.


 

© Copyright 2010, Turner Industries. All rights reserved.