The president of the union representing workers at Chrysler’s Etobicoke casting plant on Brown’s Line said a funding announcement by its parent company is “huge” for the facility.
CAW Local 1459 president Joe Mota confirmed an investment of $27.2 million from Chrysler Group LLC into its Etobicoke plant will mean 280 jobs will be retained.
The automaker’s parent company announced a major North American restructuring plan in February 2007. At the time, the carmaker said it will cut about 2,100 jobs in Ontario during the next three years but won’t close any plants or eliminate shifts.
“I’ve been here 34 years and this plant has always been under the microscope of closure or sale,” said Mota. “So it’s huge for our plant, it’s finally good news.”
But despite the news 280 jobs will be saved, the union is still pushing for more, said Mota. “We’ve got about 30 people still on layoff, so we’re working to bring those back,” he explained.
A statement posted online by Local 1459 notes Chrysler Group announced on Aug. 12 it will inject the cash into the plant to produce front and rear crossmembers (a structural component in the suspension system) for future Chrysler vehicles starting in the third quarter of 2011.
“The new investment will prepare the facility for crossmember production by securing new tooling and equipment to enhance the plant’s capability, and bringing in new technologies that will improve the quality, testing and inspection processes,” reads the release.
Michael Butz, Etobicoke casting plant manager, noted in the statement the investment is welcomed. “Being able to expand our part portfolio better aligns with Chrysler’s long-term product strategy, which ensures the future for this facility,” he said.
CAW national president Ken Lewenza added the investment “will help preserve and enhance jobs in the city and give a greater measure of security to our members and their families well into the future.”
- with files from Tamara Shephard