Machinists Union votes to strike; Spirit tells Union not to report to work Thursday
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Union employees at Spirit AeroSystems voted to strike Wednesday.
According to Union Leader Cornell Beard, 79% of union employees voted “no” to the proposed contract, and 85% voted to strike.
Spirit AeroSystems released the following statement on IAM’s vote to strike:
We are disappointed that our employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers in Wichita have rejected our four-year contract offer and have voted to strike. We believe that our fair and competitive offer recognizes the contributions of our employees and ensures we can successfully meet increasing demand for aircraft from our customers. We know that no one wins in a work stoppage; however, we respect the rights of our represented employees. Despite this setback, we are not distracted from the task at hand. We look forward to continued meetings with IAM leadership.” Spirit AeroSystems
Shortly after releasing the first statement, Spirit AeroSystems sent another one:
In light of the decision by Spirit IAM-represented employees to strike, Spirit will suspend factory production prior to the expiration of the contract. Beginning with start of first shift on Thursday, June 22, all IAM-represented employees are not to report for work but will receive pay for their regularly scheduled work hours. All scheduled overtime is canceled. All employees not represented by the IAM should report to work as usual on Thursday.” Spirit AeroSystems
The current contract between the Local Lodge 839 of the International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers (IAM) and Spirit AeroSystems expires on June 23. Contract negotiations began on May 1.
On June 13, machinists union members rallied outside Spirit AeroSystems. They are trying to gain support for a better contract and say they will strike if they do not get it. Two days later, Spirit and IAM reached an agreement on a new contract, which led to Wednesday’s vote.
KSN News will add more information as it becomes available.
To view the contract, click here.
Source: KSN-TV
