MARGARETTA TWP. — Flex-N-Gate Ventra Sandusky workers could be moving toward a strike.þþThe approximately 2,200 United Auto Workers Local 1216 members, who make parts for the Ford Motor Co. at the Tiffin Avenue factory, recently voted down a new contract.þþÿWe all must be prepared financially, mentally and spiritually,ÿ said Brett Whyde, Local 1216 president, in a post on a social network site to union members.þþThe union announced it was preparing for the next steps with the company.þþÿWe are in the deep rounds of our fight to get a contract that we can be proud of and accept,ÿ Whyde posted.þþDuring this time, the union and the company agreed to a day-to-day extension of its previous contract to allow people to continue to work. Either party can rescind this plan with a 10-workday notice.þþÿWe anticipate no disruption in our operations as the ratification process continues,ÿ Flex-N-Gate spokesman Jim Woodcock said. ÿIn respect to that process and all parties involved, we will not have further comment.ÿþþIncreased wages, back pay and shift schedules were among the issues employees took with the new contract, with many believing it was a step in the wrong direction from their previous agreement.þþOn a social networking site, the union said that a strike isn't the desired course, but they would do so if deemed necessary.þþWhyde assured members that they would be organized and prepared for a strike and encouraged them to save money just in case.þþIf the members did vote to go on strike, they could fall into one of two categories:þþEconomic strikersþþThey would fall into this category if the strike's objects were to gain higher wages, shorter hours, or better working conditions.þþThey retain their status as employees, but if the company hired replacements during this time, they would not be entitled to reinstatement when the strike ended.þþIf they are unable to find other work, however, they would be recalled to the factory when there is an opening in a job for which they qualify.þþUnfair labor practice strikeþþThey would fall into this category if they are protesting unfair labor practices. The company would not be able to discharge or permanently replace them.þþWhen the strike ends, they're entitled to return to their job even if the company hired a replacement.þþThe union replied to a comment saying they would try to secure both categories if a strike occurs.þþThe Register couldn't reach a spokesperson to speak to the union directly.
Source: Sandusky Register
