In a recent press conference, UAW President Rory Gamble warned union workers of the possibility of further walkouts if tensions remain high over the ongoing strike. The strike began on September 16th, after multiple unsuccessful attempts to renegotiate wages, health benefits, and job security. Although the UAW and Fiat Chrysler have reached a tentative agreement, the walkouts are continuing as the UAW has not officially ratified the agreement and there is still uncertainty surrounding the remaining negotiations.
Gamble has urged both sides to resolve their differences quickly and warned that the UAW may call for additional walkouts if progress does not happen within a suitable timeframe. He expects negotiations to finish by November 1st and is almost certain that at least one walkout can be expected in the next few weeks.
The UAW is pushing hard for better wages and job security standards in the automotive industry, especially for temp workers. They are asking for pay to be increased up to parity with permanent workers and an end to the two-tier model, which has caused tension between permanent and temporary workers.
Although several Fiat Chrysler workers voted to return to work, Gamble has urged other strike groups to remain strong and united during the course of negotiations. He believes that if the UAW does not stand together and continue to pressure the company during negotiations, they are likely to concede to the automakers demands and not get the best possible outcome for their members.
The UAW has made clear their intention to continue to fight for worker rights and decent wages, and Gamble is ready to call for more walkouts if the strikers’ demands are not met. The next few weeks will likely see much action, so we will have to wait and see what the results of these negotiations are.