Statement: UAW-FORD Opening 2007 Contract Negotiations

The following statement is from Joe Laymon, group vice president, Human Resources and Labor Affairs, Ford Motor Company


Dearborn, Mich., – “Today, we officially opened our 26 th round of bargaining with the United Auto Workers.

I am proud that the relationship between Ford and the UAW has been defined by its openness and honesty. I believe that’s the reason we’ve worked so well together, in unprecedented ways, to find solutions to some of our business issues.

Even with all we’ve accomplished together in the last few years, there is still more work that must be done. Together, we will continue to reevaluate and improve our competitive position, as we go forward as one Ford team. Doing this difficult work together strengthens us and puts Ford in a far better position to achieve its goals.

Our shared mission is to do nothing less than reinvigorate an iconic American company. I know in my heart that we have the same belief, the best days are still ahead for Ford, and we are up to the task.”