10 September, 2008Unions around the world pledge solidarity with the 27,000 aerospace workers who walked off the job and onto the picket line at U.S. facilities in Kansas, Oregon and Washington.
USA: The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced strike action on September 6 after intense negotiations with Boeing Company, the world's largest aircraft manufacturer, broke down over issues of outsourcing, health care and pensions.
The strike impacts 27,000 Machinists at U.S. Boeing facilities in Kansas, Oregon and Washington.
"The absence of job security language was a key reason why members rejected the company's earlier offer and it is why Boeing is now facing the second major strike in three years," said IAM international president Tom Buffenbarger. "We've learned it's not enough to have a good-paying job if that job can disappear at any time."
Trade unions and Global Union Federations around the world have voiced protest over Boeing's unwillingness to bargain in good faith and have vowed full support for the IAM.
The International Metalworkers' Federation, on behalf of the 25 million metalworkers it represents, affirmed its support and solidarity with IAM and Boeing workers on strike. In a letter to the union, Marcello Malentacchi, IMF general secretary, said "it is hard to understand that a company that posted USD 13 billion in profits over the past five years and having full order books is not willing to give its hard working employees a fair share of the profits. It is the hard work of Boeing employees that has led to the company's economic success and remarkable profits."
David Cockroft, general secretary of the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) that represents 4,500,000 transport workers in 148 countries told IAM members: "Sadly Boeing has not reciprocated the IAM's willingness to draw up a package that reflects every working man and woman's need for security and freedom from fear should he or she fall sick. In support of our colleagues in the union we entreat the company to reconsider and pursue such a settlement. However, we must also advise them that the IAM is a union with a history of international solidarity, and one that can, rightly, expect to look to its friends at moments like these. We in the ITF are proud to offer our help, and promise that until the management returns to the bargaining table and draws up a fairer offer, you can count on us for our support."
In addition to taking strike action, IAM has filed an unfair labour practice complaint with the federal labour board charging the company with engaging in an illegal strategy to avoid the union and deal directly with employees. According to the union, Boeing has been holding illegal "one-on-one" interviews with employees about specific contract proposals.
For strike information and updates go to: http://www.iam751.org/