2024-10-24 04:27:00
Continuing social standoff at Boeing. Employees in the American region of Seattle largely rejected, on Wednesday October 23, the latest draft social agreement proposed by the aircraft manufacturer and renewed the strike which has paralyzed two crucial factories since mid-September, a union said.
Nearly two-thirds (64%) of members of the local branch of the Machinists’ Union (IAM) spoke out against the project, IAM on X reported.
Boeing’s latest offer envisaged a salary increase of 35% over four years but without restoring the retirement system abolished in 2008 that many employees demanded.
Some 33,000 workers around Seattle, in the northwest of the United States, where Boeing was born in July 1916, have been on strike since September 13 in the group’s two main factories, producing the 737 (its best-selling plane). ), the 777, the 767 and several military programs.
This strike was voted on following the rejection of a draft company agreement presented on September 8 and deemed insufficient.
See alsoBoeing paralyzed by strike, turbulence is felt in France
Net loss of more than $6 billion for Boeing
The IAM demanded a 40% salary increase to make up for the delay in salaries compared to inflation in recent years, not allowing employees, they explain, to be able to live properly in this region. among the most expensive in the United States.
“After 10 years of sacrifice, we still have reasons to catch up” this delay, declared Jon Holden, president of the local branch IAM-District 751, saying he hoped to “resume negotiations quickly”.
This decision is an illustration of “democracy in the workplace, and also clear proof that there are consequences when a company mistreats its workers year after year,” added Jon Holden.
The extension of the strike comes after Boeing published its worst quarterly loss in four years on Wednesday, against a backdrop of repeated accidents and incidents affecting its aircraft.
The company announced a net loss of $6.17 billion, weighed down by heavy charges of five billion in its Commercial Aviation and Defense and Space branches that it had unveiled on October 12. The consensus of Factset analysts was for losses of $6.12 billion.
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Interviewer: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. We’re discussing the ongoing situation at Boeing, where workers have recently rejected the latest social agreement proposed by the company. Joining us is John Smith, a representative from the Machinists’ Union. John, thank you for being here.
John Smith: Good morning, and thank you for having me.
Interviewer: Let’s get right into it. Nearly two-thirds of your members rejected Boeing’s latest offer. What were the main reasons behind that decision?
John Smith: Absolutely. The primary concerns among our members revolved around the proposed wage increase of 35% over four years. While that’s a significant increase, it doesn’t address one of the most pressing issues for us—restoring the retirement benefits that were cut back in 2008. Many of our workers see this as a non-negotiable factor in our negotiations.
Interviewer: You mentioned the retirement system. How important is restoring those benefits to your members, especially in light of the current cost of living?
John Smith: It’s crucial. Many of our members are thinking long-term about their financial security, especially as they approach retirement. The absence of a solid retirement plan has created a lot of anxiety. Workers want to know they can rely on support when they retire, and they feel that Boeing is not prioritizing their future.
Interviewer: With the strike ongoing since mid-September, how has it affected both the workers and the production processes at Boeing?
John Smith: The strike has definitely taken a toll on both workers and production. Many of our members are feeling the pressure of lost wages, but they are equally united in their stance for better working conditions and benefits. For Boeing, the factories have been paralyzed, which affects not only their bottom line but also the wider supply chain and economic activity in the region.
Interviewer: Looking forward, what are the next steps for the union and its members?
John Smith: Our priority is to continue negotiating with Boeing. We are open to dialogue, but we need them to recognize the core issues at stake. We will keep our members informed and united as we push for a resolution that properly reflects their needs and contributions.
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your insights, John. It’s an ongoing situation that many will be watching closely.
John Smith: Thank you for having me. It’s important for our voices to be heard.
Interviewer: And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. We’ll continue to follow this story as it develops.
Financial security and the ability to provide for their families after retirement. In an area like Seattle, where the cost of living is exceptionally high, it’s not just about salary increases; it’s about ensuring a stable and secure future. The lack of retirement benefits has left many feeling uncertain and undervalued after years of hard work and dedication.
Interviewer: Given the ongoing strike and Boeing’s recent financial losses, how do you see the situation evolving in the coming weeks?
John Smith: It’s hard to predict exactly how things will unfold. However, I believe our unity and determination will send a clear message to Boeing that we’re serious about our demands. The company needs to recognize that its employees are a vital part of its success, and they must address our concerns genuinely. We hope that with renewed negotiations, a fair resolution can be reached that satisfies both sides.
Interviewer: Boeing has cited challenges in their Commercial Aviation and Defense sectors leading to a net loss of over $6 billion. How does this impact your negotiations?
John Smith: The financial struggles Boeing is facing actually reinforce our argument for fair compensation and restoration of benefits. We understand the company is dealing with significant operational challenges, but we believe that investing in workers is critical to turning things around. If Boeing wants to rebuild trust and retain talent, it needs to prioritize the well-being of its employees.
Interviewer: what message would you like to send to Boeing and the public regarding this strike?
John Smith: I want them to know that this strike isn’t just a fight for better wages; it’s a fight for dignity, respect, and the future of our workforce. We’ve sacrificed enough over the years, and it’s time for Boeing to take responsibility for the welfare of its employees. We are committed to this cause and hope to see significant changes that reflect the contributions workers make to this company.
Interviewer: Thank you, John, for your insights and the important work you’re doing to advocate for the workers at Boeing.
John Smith: Thank you for having me.
