Stellantis employees in Ontario, represented by Unifor, have overwhelmingly voted in favor of a strike mandate, with a resounding 97% support, as talks for a collective agreement have hit a standstill. The voting process took place over a two-day period during the weekend. The workers are based at facilities in Windsor, Toronto, and the inactive Brampton assembly plant.
Unifor has emphasized that any potential strike action is viewed as a last resort. James Stewart, President of Unifor Local 444, expressed the unity and strength displayed by the workforce through the strike authorization vote exceeding 97%, stating that it provides them with the necessary leverage to move forward.
Stellantis acknowledged the situation in response to CBC News, stating their commitment to engaging in genuine negotiations and expressing readiness to continue discussions for a mutually acceptable agreement that acknowledges the workforce’s contributions while ensuring the long-term competitiveness of their Canadian operations, according to spokesperson LouAnn Gosselin.
Lana Payne, the National President of Unifor, highlighted the collective determination among members to secure a “fair agreement” with Stellantis that safeguards Canadian autoworkers’ jobs. Despite the strong stance taken by the union, it clarified that it is not currently in a legal position to strike since neither Stellantis nor Unifor has initiated the process for a No Board report, a necessary step under labor laws for potential job action.
A significant point of contention revolves around the uncertainty surrounding the Brampton factory. Recent developments indicate Stellantis’ intention to sell the property to defense contractor Roshel. The union has raised concerns about the potential impact of closing and selling the Brampton facility on workers’ livelihoods, including wages, pensions, and benefits, as well as the broader implications for Ontario’s automotive industry and supply chain.
Trevor Longley, President and CEO of Stellantis Canada, reiterated the company’s commitment to the Canadian market, highlighting investments exceeding $8 billion in their Canadian operations since 2022. Notably, in Windsor, a third shift was reinstated in February, signaling positive developments within the company’s operations.