Boeing workers to vote on union-proposed strike settlement offer

By Gokhan Ergocun

ISTANBUL (AA) - The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) announced new steps Tuesday to settle a strike involving 3,200 of its members at Boeing Defense’s facilities in the St. Louis area of the US after they walked off the job nearly six weeks ago.

The union members will vote Friday on a union-proposed four-year contract proposal, "a serious path toward strike settlement after Boeing refused to improve on an offer that was rejected by the membership," said the union.

"If IAM Union members ratify the offer, it will be submitted to Boeing as a pre-ratified agreement subject to Boeing’s acceptance,” it said.

"If Boeing declines the IAM’s offer, members will continue to remain on strike and stand ready to return to the bargaining table. The strike will continue until Boeing has accepted the offer."

IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett said union members build world-class military aircraft and help deliver Boeing billions in defense contracts, and they have earned a contract that reflects that value.

The union noted that members built and supported the production of the F-15EX, F/A-18, T-7A, MQ-25 and future F-47 fighter jet and "they remained united and resolute in demanding the fair contract they’ve earned through years of hard work and excellence."

Some 3,200 Boeing personnel decided to go on strike in early August after Boeing offered a new deal to workers with some minor compensation changes, modifying the previous one.

Boeing's offer included an average annual wage increase to $102,600 from $75,000.