“Success in Sight? UAW and Ford Forge Tentative Pact, Possible End to Big Three Strike in Reach

After a grueling 40 day strike, the United Auto Workers union (UAW) and Ford Motor Company have reached a tentative agreement, potentially ending the labor dispute and paving the way for the over 40,000 employees to return to their jobs. The deal marks a substantial victory for the union, whose workers have been on the picket lines since mid-September in Detroit. Management had been reluctant to grant wages hikes, cost of living allowances, and a path to full-time employment for select temporary workers. While the specific details of the agreement have not been made public, it appears the union has achieved some of its demands. There has been a reported hourly pay increase, as well as the guarantee of a large on-time payment to all UAW members. The agreement also covers health care benefits and guarantees that temporary workers will be given the opportunity to gain access to full-time jobs. The agreement also address plant transfers, job security, and the right of union representation. The tentative agreement has been approved by union leadership but still needs to be ratified by members. Until then, the picket lines will remain in place – setting up a potential last-minute breakdown. With the agreement, a possible end to the strike at Detroit’s Big Three automakers is in sight. How it will truly affect the industry, though, remains to be seen. As for the workers, they are one major step closer to getting back to work.