The machinists involved in the strike against Boeing are engaging in indirect discussions to resolve the issue. The union representing the workers said on Friday that it is ‘actively engaged’ in the negotiations with the aircraft manufacturer and these talks are being facilitated by Acting US Labor Secretary, Julie Su.
Sharing the information via a post on social media, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 751 said, “We are fully committed to these talks. It is our responsibility to attempt to reach a resolution.” The strike has been going on for more than a month now and has added to mounting losses for the manufacturer reported Reuters.
Notably, the strike began on September 13 after nearly 33,000 of Boeing’s unionised West Coast employees, majorly in Washington state, demanded a 40 per cent jump in wages over a period of four years. The workers also called for the restoration of the defined benefit pension.
The strikes have interrupted production work and impacted the supply of the company’s 737 MAX, 767, and 777 widebodies.
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These discussions reflect the first indication of any improvement in the company’s circumstances. Earlier on October 8, Boeing withdrew its offer that provided a 30 per cent wage hike to employees over four years, after discussions earlier attended by federal mediators broke down. This was followed by an unfair labour practice charge filed by the company against the union.
The Labour Secretary tried to help the firm reach a new contract this week. A spokesperson for the official said Su is ‘currently in Seattle having discussions with both parties. She has met with the CEO and the union and has been in touch multiple times throughout the process’.
Last week, the manufacturer announced that it would cut down 17,000 jobs that comes up to 10 per cent of its global workforce and take $5 billion in charges.