UAW unworried about blowback over German union cooperation

The vote is due to take place on December 3 and December 4.

It seems like a lot of time has passed since Fiat Chrysler union workers voted in favor of a new four year deal which the UAW then ratified.

But the UAW argued that the maintenance workers share unique sets of interests, including enhanced electrical and mechanical skills and training requirements, varying shift schedules, and even different uniforms than their colleagues working in assembly, body welding or the paint shop.

Volkswagen could appeal the decision.

Germany’s largest trade union said on Thursday it would deepen its partnership with the United Auto Workers (UAW) in the United States to help boost labor rights at German automakers and their suppliers based there.

The company is reviewing the content of the Regional Director’s decision and is considering its options.

The hearing came on the heels of the so-called Dieselgate scandal, in which Volkswagen admitted rigging millions of cars to cheat emissions tests.

Federal law allows a portion of a work location to be represented by a union, the UAW said. Looking ahead, our hope is that the company now will recommit to the values that made Volkswagen a great brand – environmental sustainability and true co-determination between management and employees. “We have no doubt that Volkswagen can make a comeback in the USA and around the world, but the company needs to refocus on its core principles”.