A strike at the factories of three major American car manufacturers was declared by the workers at midnight on Thursday (14/9), demanding the conclusion new collective labor agreements and salary increases.
In particular, the head of the union United Auto Workers(UAW), Sean Fein noted that three units—one from each of the so-called Detroit Big Three, General Motors, Stellantis and Ford—were selected for the mass mobilization, calling his members union to be ready to take part in the strike actions in turn, depending on the course of the collective negotiations.
The negotiation is tough and the two sides are still far from the agreement.
The union is demanding 40 percent raises, the automakers say they won't go above 20 percent, while rejecting other key UAW demands.
The union has prepared an $825 million strike fund.
Fein explained that these are the factories where Ford's popular Bronco model is produced in Wayne (Michigan), GM's open-top pickup trucks in Wadeville (Missouri) and Stellantis Jeep in Toledo (Ohio). These vehicles currently account for thebiggest sales of the “Detroit Three”.
It should also be noted that approximately 12,700 workers work in these factories.
“For the first time in our history, we will strike at all three Big Three strong>,” Mr. Fein insisted, clarifying that he was going to the strike meeting at the plant in Wayne.
At the same time, he did not rule out the possibility that the strike would become general. “If we all have to strike, we will,” he said.
Meanwhile, if the strike action lasts, the American economy will take a hit, as many companies depend on auto industry and its workers.
Note that the conflict over new collective bargaining agreements could pose a serious problem for Democratic President Joe Biden, who will seek re-election in 2024 . Mr. Biden has been calling for a long time to conclude the fastest agreement on the new collective agreements.
source: CNN Greece
