Stellantis employees in Ontario, represented by Unifor, have overwhelmingly voted in favor of a strike mandate, with a significant 97% majority, amid ongoing collective bargaining talks impasse. The voting process took place over a two-day period during the weekend. The workers are based at facilities in Windsor, Toronto, and the currently inactive Brampton assembly plant.
Unifor represents more than 9,000 Stellantis employees in Canada and has emphasized that any potential strike action involving Ontario workers is considered a last resort. James Stewart, president of Unifor Local 444, expressed the significance of the vote, stating that the high level of support sends a strong message of unity and strength across Stellantis workplaces.
The company responded to CBC News, emphasizing its commitment to engaging in good-faith negotiations. Stellantis spokesperson, LouAnn Gosselin, stated that the company is dedicated to reaching a mutually beneficial agreement that acknowledges the workforce’s contributions while ensuring the long-term competitiveness of its Canadian operations.
Unifor’s national president, Lana Payne, reiterated members’ determination to secure a “fair agreement” with Stellantis that safeguards jobs for Canadian autoworkers. The union clarified that it is not currently in a legal strike position as neither Stellantis nor Unifor has requested a No Board report, a necessary step under labor law for initiating job action.
A major point of contention has been the uncertainty surrounding the Brampton factory, with Stellantis announcing plans to sell the property to defense contractor Roshel. Concerns have been raised over potential threats to workers’ wages, pensions, benefits, and the wider impact on Ontario’s automotive sector and supply chain.
Stellantis Canada’s president and CEO, Trevor Longley, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the Canadian market, highlighting investments exceeding $8 billion in its Canadian operations since 2022. Notably, in Windsor, a third shift was reinstated in February, demonstrating ongoing developments within the company’s operations.