In the latest update in the ongoing American Axle strike which is crippling GM’s production, the UAW refused an offer to bring in a federal mediator to help the two sides reach an agreement, American Axle said on Sunday. Axle workers have been on picket lines since February 26, disputing proposed wage and benefit cuts that Axle owners say are necessary in order to be competitive with other auto parts suppliers.
The talks resumed last Wednesday after a near one-month suspension, and continued on into the weekend, according to Automotive News. Axle representatives expressed their disappointment with the UAW’s refusal, who concluded bringing in a Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service mediator would be unhelpful this far into talks.
“In fact, it would place the mediator in a no-win situation,” said UAW President Ron Gettelfinger in a statement, after conversations with the mediator service representative.
Last week, Axle workers rejected a UAW offer. Industry analysts believe GM will have to step in soon, as its sales will soon be affected once it runs out of American Axle-made rear knuckles for its Pontiac G6 and Chevrolet Malibu sedans.
