Unifor sets targets on GM after ratifying deal with Ford
Unifor National President Lana Payne says the union holds a position of power after reaching a deal with Ford, hoping to use that momentum to negotiate a new deal with GM.
Striking workers picket near a Mopar Parts Distribution Center in Center Line, Michigan.
Canadian auto workers represented by Unifor ratified a new deal with Ford Motor Company over the weekend, winning significant wage increases and cost of living adjustments, as well as improved health and dental benefits.
Now, Unifor has set its target on General Motors, using the newly ratified deal as a framework for a new contract.
Unifor National President Lana Payne says the union holds a position of power after reaching a deal with Ford, hoping to use that momentum to negotiate a new deal with GM and Stellantis in Canada.
“Just as we had with Ford Motor Company, we hold a lot of negotiating leverage with GM right now,” she said. “Our facility is working around the clock producing very lucrative pickup trucks. The St. Catherine’s engine and transmission facility like Ford’s powertrain operations is a lynchpin for GMs North American operations.
“I don’t expect this to be an easy round of bargaining and I want to make sure our union is best positioned to move this pattern forward for the benefit of all our members, active and retired.”
In the U.S., the United Auto Workers chose not to expand its strike against Ford last week, citing progress in negotiations with the automaker. The union did expand its strike against GM and Stellantis, however, as negotiations with the automakers have lagged behind.
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