FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Striking IAM Workers Will Return to Work to Bargain Regal Beloit’s Plant Closing Decision
Friday, August 30, 2019 –Members of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) Local 2018 will be returning to work Tuesday, September 3, 2019 as part of an agreement reached between the union and Regal Beloit in Valparaiso, IN.
The agreement follows Regal’s abrupt announcement this week that the company will be closing its Valparaiso facility – in the midst of IAM Local 2018’s ongoing strike against the company for fair wages and affordable healthcare.
The more than 110 IAM members employed at Regal Beloit have been on strike since June 30, 2019.
The union and company will begin bargaining Regal’s decision to close in an effort to maintain work in Valparaiso.
IAM International President Bob Martinez sent a letter to the White House Thursday asking for President Trump and former Indiana governor, now Vice President Mike Pence’s assistance in urging Regal to reverse its decision.
Workers at the plant produce parts for many vital U.S. aerospace defense programs, including Apache helicopters and Air Force One. The factory has been in Valparaiso for more than 100 years.
“Regal Beloit’s plan to turn its back on this community and this workforce is unconscionable and downright un-American,” wrote Martinez. “In addition to the 111 IAM members at this facility, there are also approximately 60 non-represented employees at this location, bringing the impending loss of jobs to 171. That is 171 working men and women, along with their families, who will abruptly lose their livelihood. Additionally, the effects of this planned closure on the surrounding community cannot be overstated.”
About the IAMAW
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 active and retired members in manufacturing, aerospace, transportation, shipbuilding, woodworking and other industries. For more information, visit www.GoIAM.org.
###
