August 10, 2017
MILTON – Unifor has taken control of the Northstar Aerospace facility in Milton, Ontario to demand that the company fund a dramatic 24 per cent pension deficit.
“This action sends a clear message to Northstar that the company cannot short-change workers and the pension of retirees that have made it profitable for so many years,” said Jerry Dias, Unifor National President. “There is no financial reason for refusing to fund the plan. The only excuse is corporate greed.”
After announcing the re-location of its Milton facility’s equipment to Chicago and Windsor, Northstar Aerospace refuses to meet the 24 per cent pension short fall for workers facing job loss. Since January Unifor and its Local 112 have attempted to negotiate a closure agreement to protect current pension provisions and benefits. This short fall will affect future and current retirees, some of whom are already on a fixed income after having worked at the facility for more than 40 years.
“We have stopped production at this facility until Northstar holds up its end of a commitment, a commitment to the workers who have made this company flourish,” said Scott McIlmoyle, Unifor Local 112 President. “After months the company has refused to discuss the matter. Time is running out - Northstar needs to do the right thing.”
The occupation began at 4 a.m. ET and is currently underway at 180 Market Drive in Milton, Ontario. Unifor members and supporters are holding a picket line outside the facility and will continue to demonstrate around the clock. The public is welcome to attend to show support for the workers. For more information read this leaflet and follow #occupyNorthstar on Twitter.
