Nov 26, 2004. /Lesprom Network/. The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada is asking the Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development to investigate recent activities of UPM Kymmene which owns and operates a kraft pulp mill and paper mill in Miramichi, New Brunswick. In a letter to the OECD, CEP President Brian Payne says that the Finnish based paper making giant has committed “serious breaches” of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. The OECD is an international organization established by 30 nations to monitor the economic and social performance of the public and private sectors. It has established minimum rules and principles of conduct for multinationals operating around the globe. Mr. Payne, in his letter, accuses UPM Kymmene of creating a “cold war” atmosphere in the workplace in Miramichi; by refusing to disclose information to the union surrounding its announced closure of the kraft mill; by hiring security agents to monitor workers’ activities; by refusing to settle worker grievances on the job; by refusing to negotiate renewal of the collective agreement in good faith; and, by suspending local union officers for performing their duties. UPM Kymmene announced its intention to close the Miramichi kraft pulp mill at the end of January. CEP is spearheading a community based effort to keep the mill open and save the 400 jobs at risk. “While issues surrounding the mill closure and collective bargaining warrant action on your part on their own merits, we would also point out that UPM Kymmene has ailed the OECD guidelines more generally on the social responsibility side,” Mr. Payne said. He pointed out that the company has been penalized for not abiding by terms of its reforestation commitments and is facing complaints in relation to maintaining minimum environmental standards.