The leader of the labor union representing employees at the General Motors CAMI assembly plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, stated that workers would seize control of the facility if the company attempted to relocate any vehicles from the plant. Unifor local 88 plant chairperson Mike Van Boekel emphasized, “We will physically take the plant,” during a statement made on Wednesday. GM spokesperson Jennifer Wright, in a response to CBC News, mentioned that the company currently has no intentions to remove equipment from the plant. Wright added that GM’s main focus is to provide support to its employees and collaborate with Unifor and government entities to explore opportunities for CAMI.
Following a meeting between the union, Ingersoll Mayor Brian Petrie, and federal Industry Minister Mélanie Joly on Tuesday to discuss negotiations with GM regarding the plant’s future, Van Boekel expressed hope for a resolution that would allow the plant to resume operations and its 1,200 workers to return to work. Van Boekel indicated progress was being made without divulging specific details, highlighting the significant financial decisions involved in these discussions.
In a statement sent to CBC News, Joly’s spokesperson confirmed Ottawa’s ongoing discussions with GM regarding a potential new vehicle mandate for the plant, emphasizing the importance of providing employment opportunities for the people of Ingersoll. Uncertainty looms over the plant’s future following GM’s recent announcement to cease production of the BrightDrop delivery van, leading to a temporary halt in plant activities back in April. Despite initial plans to resume production, GM later announced the permanent discontinuation of BrightDrop production due to low demand.
GM reiterated its commitment to Canada in a statement to CBC News, mentioning ongoing assessments for future opportunities at the plant while emphasizing the need for collaborative discussions to deliver positive outcomes for all stakeholders. Unifor Local 88 postponed an online Q&A session with its members, planning to address outstanding support payment issues with the union on Thursday. Van Boekel underscored the workers’ determination to protect their jobs and prevent any closure or equipment relocation from the plant.
Meanwhile, Oxford MP Arpan Khanna urged Joly in a letter to provide an update on discussions with GM about the plant’s future, particularly after the passing of the 15-day deadline. Khanna emphasized the community’s concerns and anxieties about the uncertain future of the CAMI plant in Ingersoll.