US auto workers’ union boss says strikes will continue in bid for better offers from companies
Associated PressDETROIT — United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain said Friday that while Detroit’s automakers have increased their wage and benefit offers, he believes the union can gain more if it holds out longer in contract talks. In the past 24 hours, Fain said, Stellantis and GM have made wage offers that matched Ford’s 23% over the life of a four year contract. “What that should tell you,” Fain said, is that “there’s room to move.” In a statement, GM said it made an offer Friday with “substantial movement in all key areas in an effort to reach a final agreement with the UAW and get our people back to work.” Stellantis said it and the union have made progress to narrow gaps on significant issues “that will bring immediate financial gains and job security for our employees.” The company said it’s focused on resolving the issues as soon as possible. Fain said GM refused to match Ford’s offer to give workers the right to strike over plant closings. That said, McCray said he thinks workers would ratify the contract, given the raises, cost-of-living pay and other benefits, if Fain tells workers it’s the best deal he could get.