The Canadian workers’ union at Stellantis is urging the automaker to uphold its commitment to retool the Brampton Ont. plant amid indications of a potential sale. Stellantis recently announced a memorandum of understanding with Roshel, a Canadian armoured vehicle manufacturer, regarding the sale of the Brampton plant.
The Brampton facility has been inactive since 2023, originally intended for retooling for Jeep Compass production before plans were put on hold in early 2025. Subsequently, the company decided to shift production of the vehicle model to the U.S.
During a news conference in Windsor, Unifor national president Lana Payne expressed the union’s discontent with Stellantis’ decision to sell the plant. Payne emphasized the union’s unwavering stance that Stellantis should proceed with retooling for the promised Jeep Compass, advocating for the preservation of the plant’s integrity for future vehicle production.
In response, Stellantis conveyed through a letter shared with CBC News by a Brampton plant worker that the company is firmly committed to Canada, highlighting its longstanding presence in the country with vehicle production in Windsor, operation of the Etobicoke casting facility, and investments in advanced research and development at the Windsor engineering center.
The letter stated that Stellantis explored various options to restore production in Brampton but found none to be economically viable for sustained operations at the facility. The automaker extended an invitation to Unifor for discussions and encouraged engagement with Roshel to understand their vision for the Brampton assembly plant.
Payne reached out to federal Industry Minister Mélanie Joly seeking clarity on the government’s involvement in the MOU between Stellantis and Roshel. She highlighted concerns about selling the plant amid a trade war and ongoing collective bargaining, labeling it as indefensible.
The union is facing challenges in negotiations with Stellantis due to Roshel’s involvement, with the current collective agreement set to expire on September 20 at 11:59 p.m. Payne’s letter to the industry minister requests insights into governmental discussions with Stellantis, consideration of options, and potential approval of the sale.
Overall, the union remains steadfast in its advocacy for the Brampton plant’s future and seeks transparency from both Stellantis and the government regarding the ongoing developments.