FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Last February 14th, new IAMAW Local Lodge 1758 members have rejected Company’s offers by a margin of 75%. Rallying around this decision, 89% of local members voted on the spot to give a strike mandate to their Negotiation Committee.
Main points of contention are the salaries and the Pension Plan. Furthermore, Union Employees are concerned that combo-work (operation of more than one machine) endangers their job security. The Union is ready to look at the Company’s proposal but insists there be no lay-offs.
Workers at the plant find it difficult to understand the Company’s constant refusal to adhere to the IAM Multi-Employer (Quebec) Pension Plan. The Company would assume no risks since the contribution rate would be specified in the collective agreement. The obstinacy of Héroux-Devtek is depriving its Union employees tcredit for their past years of service.
Parties continue to negotiate. The Contract expired on December 31st, 2003. Members’ solidarity will be the determining factor in order to obtain Union demands.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), affiliated to the Québec Federation of Labour, is the most important Union in the aerospace sector and air transportation in North America. With its 700,000 members across North America, the IAM represents workers in all areas. Amongst others, our members make aircrafts, jet engines, electric and industrial turbines.
Source: International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
Contact: Pierre Brisebois, Business Representative, IAMAW District 11 (Quebec) (514) 956-1578
