An arbitrator will decide how the dispute between Unifor and Nemak will end.
The two sides will take part in an arbitration hearing Tuesday and Wednesday after talks broke down earlier this month over the future of the Windsor plant.
The union argues the company is in violation of the collective agreement with a decision to shut down operations in June 2020 and move production to Mexico — but Nemak is remaining firm on its stance that it's in full compliance with the agreement.
Unifor Local 200 president John D'Agnolo speaking about the Nemak protest on September 4, 2019 (Photo by AM800's Zander Broeckel)
Unifor Local 200 President, John D'Agnolo says he's confident the arbitrator will side with the workers.
"I think we'll win. So what comes out of that? I'm not sure, but I've always said we've got very good language when it comes to those three new programs and I hope they stay here in Windsor," he says.
The dispute resulted in a two-week blockade at the plant in September before both sides agreed to talks.
D'Agnolo says it's been a stressful time for employees.
"They're on pins and needles. When you think about it, they don't know what their future holds right now. We've got to rely on the courts to make a decision and they're just waiting. It's just a waiting game for them and it's hard," he says.
After the two day arbitration hearing, a decision is expected sometime in November.
Both sides have agreed to abide by whatever ruling is handed down.
With files from Rob Hindi