by David Shepardson
(Reuters) – A union representing striking machinists at Boeing said on Friday it was “actively engaged in indirect discussions” with the plane maker that are being facilitated by acting U.S. Labor Secretary Julie Su.
“We remain fully committed to these negotiations. It is our responsibility to try to reach a solution,” the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 751 said in a social media post.
Boeing’s nearly 33,000 unionized West Coast workers, most of them in Washington state, have been on strike since Sept. 13, demanding a 40% pay increase over four years and the loss of the plane maker’s best-selling 737 Max and its 767. And halting production of the 777 widebody. ,
The talks are the first sign of movement in the more than a month-old strike since Boeing on October 8 withdrew its latest offer that included a 30% wage increase over four years, after talks attended by federal mediators broke down. Boeing later filed unfair labor practice charges against the union.
Boeing declined immediate comment Friday.
Last Friday, Boeing announced it would cut 17,000 jobs, or 10% of its global workforce, and take $5 billion in charges, continuing a year of turmoil for the company.
Boeing on Tuesday announced a window for up to $25 billion in stock and debt offerings over the next three years, as well as a $10 billion credit agreement.
On Monday, Sue was in Seattle for her first personal effort to help reach a deal. Su’s spokesman declined to comment Friday.
In September, about 95% of West Coast workers rejected Boeing’s contract offer of a 25% wage increase over four years, leading to a strike.
(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Rod Nickel)
