Unifor Local 444, NextStar reach tentative agreement to unionize EV battery plant

CBC

3 days ago

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Unifor Local 444 says they've reached a tentative agreement to unionize the NextStar EV battery facility.
A ratification vote is scheduled for employees for Sunday.
"This tentative agreement reflects our union's unwavering commitment to fairness, respect, and a strong future in this new sector," said James Stewart, president of Unifor Local 444, in a statement posted to social media.
"We thank our bargaining team and the employees of NextStar for their patience, participation, and solidarity throughout this process."
Nextstar, the EV battery manufacturing facility in the city's east end, started production last fall. At full production it will employ 2,500 people and is expected to create thousands of spin-off jobs in Windsor's auto sector.
The facility, a joint venture between LG Energy Solutions and Stellantis, broke ground in 2022.
Unifor Local 444 already represents more than 4,500 workers at the Stellantis Windsor Assembly Plant.
The union notes says the initial tentative deal is a "significant milestone and sets the bar in securing strong representation and protections for workers in this emerging electrified sector."
In a statement, the company acknowledged it had reached a deal with the union.