UNITED STATES: Auto-makers slash jobs

Issue 

On January 23, Ford announced a new restructuring plan for its North American operations, which includes the closure of 14 plants and the loss of 30,000 jobs by 2012. It will cut its production by 26% of current capacity by 2008. Ford also plans to reduce its managerial staff by 12% in April. The restructure comes after Ford lost US$1.6 billion on its North American operations, down $3 billion on 2004. However it still made $2 billion profit globally. The announcement of the restructuring plan follows Ford's shedding of 35,000 jobs internationally in 2002. The current contract between the United Auto Workers and Ford includes clauses giving UAW members the right to vote on any plant closures or layoffs.

From Green Left Weekly, February 1, 2006.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.