America’s UAW labour body is hailing the support of Volkswagen’s Global Works Council in setting up greater dialogue with the automaker in Tennessee, although it appears to be still some way short of establishing a formal union.
The UAW was thwarted earlier this year in its attempts to form traditional labour representation, losing a vote at the Chattanooga factory by 44 votes, with the Detroit-based body referring to “tremendous pressure from outside” following the election, but it now appears to be inching towards greater recognition as it establishes its Local 42 grouping
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“We have had tremendous…and ongoing support from the [Volkswagen] Global Works Council,” UAW secretary-treasurer Gary Casteel, told just-auto from Detroit. “We are very appreciative and very aware of their help.
“Our belief is what is good for the workers is good for the company. Volkswagen announced the company has verified the substantial membership level of UAW 42 in Chattanooga.
“The Local union is ready to move forward – the Local is ready to take advantage of the company’s offer to establish bi-weekly meetings.”
Volkswagen was not immediately available in Chattanooga or Wolfsburg to substantiate the UAW’s position, but any move to an “American-style” Works Council is sure to come under forensic scrutiny from Tennessee politicians such as Bob Corker, who has consistently opposed the formation of a union at the plant.
It remains unclear as to how binding any discussions UAW has through its Local will be on Volkswagen and there does not appear to be any collective bargaining aarrangement set in stone at the moment.
“This agreement does not provide a pathway to collective bargaining, neither does it inhibit it,” said Casteel. “We are now discussing that with the company. We have got to take things a step at a time.
“If we reflect where we were in February, did we think we would be in a position where are today? No. I guess these negotiations are the art of the possible.
“A lot has been said about the situation in Chattanooga, but one thing has never changed. The cornerstone of Volkswagen’s business model is participation – Chattanooga finally takes part in Volkswagen’s philosophy and culture.”
