The following statement was released by the United Auto Workers union in response to Toyota’s decision to close the NUMMI plant in Freemont, Calif.:
"Toyota's announcement that it will close the NUMMI plant is devastating news for thousands of workers in California," said UAW president Ron Gettelfinger. "Over the past 25 years, UAW members at NUMMI have dedicated themselves to building the highest-quality vehicles. They deserve better than to be abandoned by this company, which has profited so richly from their labor, their productivity and their commitment to quality."
Gettelfinger acknowledged that Toyota, like all automakers, has significant overcapacity worldwide. "However," he said, "it's unfortunate the company chose to close a U.S. facility after benefiting so greatly from the federal 'cash-for-clunkers' program, which is funded by U.S. taxpayers."
UAW vice president Jimmy Settles called the move "illogical" and "ill-timed" in today's economy. "California continues to struggle with severe budget deficits and the country is trying to claw its way out of the worst recession since the Great Depression. This is no time to close a highly successful manufacturing facility. California is one of the most important markets for Toyota."
At a time when responsible companies are doing everything possible to reduce global warming, Settles said, "Toyota will now be increasing its carbon footprint by shipping cars from overseas and across the country for sale in California."
UAW Region 5 director Jim Wells said that in addition to the 4,000 UAW-represented workers at the plant, Toyota's decision will negatively affect up to 35,000 families in California whose livelihoods are tied to the facility. "This move will cause lasting hardship for the residents of California," Wells said. "These are good-paying jobs that spur economic growth throughout the state and region. This plant is a profound asset to Toyota. It has a highly experienced, diverse and award-winning workforce. For a company that prides itself on quality and being a good member of the community, this decision is stunning."
"It is too bad that the company couldn't wait to talk to the team members whose lives will be devastated by this decision prior to informing the press," said UAW Local 2244 president Sergio Santos.
Bargaining chairman Javier Contreras said the union has and remains committed to working with Toyota and the state of California to keep the plant open. "We also stand ready to ensure our members receive all contractual and public benefits they are entitled to as a result of this unfortunate decision."
