Over 10,000 Deere Company workers went on strike Thursday after the company allegedly failed to present an agreement that met the demands and needs of Union members.
The Union of United Auto Workers told its members - who are seeking an improved standard of living, retirement benefits and a better work environment — would walk off the job by 11:59 p.m. on 13 Oct. if a deal wasn't reached.
However, a vast majority of the Union members, about 90%, rejected a tentative agreement reached earlier this week by the union and John Deere even though it would have delivered 5% raises to some workers and 6% raises to others.
Our members in UAW strike for the ability to earn a decent living, retire with dignity and establish fair work rules, said Chuck Browning. This position remains fixed until our members goal is achieved. Thousands of members have already set up pickets at John Deere locations and are ready to fight and hold out for a contract that meets their needs, said Ron McInroy, director of UAW Region 4.
Marvin Johnson, Deere company Vice President of Labour Relations said the company is committed to a favorable outcome for our employees, our communities and everyone involved. Morris added that the company is looking to reach an agreement that would put every employee in a better economic position and continue to make them the highest-paid employees in the agriculture and construction industries. The strike, which covers 14 Deere plants across the United States has drawn concerns from local officials.
The Deere production plants are important contributors to the economy so local officials hope any strike will be short-lived.
New York City Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati wanted to see our economy stabilize and grow after the impact of COVID - 19 pandemic, Moline Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati said to the Quad Cities Times. Hopefully, these parties can come to a solution soon.