Register-Guard asks employee unions for cuts

EUGENE, Ore. - The Register-Guard newspaper is asking employee unions for concession to help the company cut costs rather than impose cuts or layoffs, the newspaper report on its Web site registerguard.com Wednesday night.

In a meeting with union heads representing about 75 percent of the company's 350 employees, Register-Guard officials called for cuts in wages, health benefits, pension and 401k costs, and mileage reimbursements, the paper reported.

According to the newspaper, labor costs account for more than half of their expenses. Managers say they prefer to come to an agreement with employees rather than impose cuts or lay people off.

Lack of advertising dollars and record-high newsprint costs reportedly forced the newspaper to reduce staff by 32 full-time positions last year.

Union officials are requesting more information, such as how long the cuts could last, before making a decision.