Unifor opens action centre to assist auto and auto parts workers in the Niagara region
Unifor has launched a new labour action centre to assist Unifor Local 199 members at the GM Propulsion Plant in St. Catharines and independent parts suppliers throughout the region, including TORA, Spencer ARL, Knights Facilities Management, and Assemble Rite, who were laid off as a result of retooling delays for electric drive unit production and the end of life of the High Feature V6 (HFV6) engine and GF6 six-speed transmission programs.
“Today, our union will open the Niagara Regional Action Centre with vital financial support from the Ontario government to provide union members on layoff with a wide-range of peer-led support when they need it most,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “Far too many workers have been affected by this retooling delay. Though our work is far from over to support our members, their families and protect their livelihoods, this action centre will go a long way to helping the most vulnerable with immediate assistance.”
Autoworkers at the GM Propulsion Plant continue to build Gen5 engines, and the C8 eight-speed dual-clutch transmission for the Chevrolet Corvette.
“Our members, whether they build powertrains or parts, have all worked to keep the economic engine in the Niagara Region running strong for more than 70 years,” said Unifor Local 199 President Jordan Lennox. “We are in the middle of an industrial transition and economic slowdown not seen in generations. While we deliver these important peer-led services to our members we will continue to work towards solutions that protect jobs at GM St. Catharines and our independent auto parts suppliers for the long-term.”
The Niagara Action Centre will provide support by peer-coordinators for approximately 1,000 union members with finding new employment and retraining opportunities, as well as mental health support services, career counselling, resume building and other important resources.