Magna International discussing 'framework of fairness' with major unions - By GARY NORRIS, Canadian Press
Magna International Inc., which grew into the world's third-largest auto parts maker as a non-union enterprise, is discussing a 'framework of fairness' with major unions, chairman Frank Stronach said Tuesday.
'Unions fulfil a very important role,' Stronach told Magna's annual meeting, saying they balance the naked profit motive of corporations and promote social justice, fairness and the environment.
Speaking to reporters later, co-CEO Don Walker said talks with leaders of the Canadian Auto Workers and United Auto Workers are 'conceptual' so far. The unions have repeatedly failed in the past to organize in Magna plants.
Stronach - who built Magna on an 'entrepreneurial' culture based on competitive pay, profit-sharing and an employee charter guaranteeing safety and fairness - said deals with the CAW and UAW could be in place within months, though Walker added that it might take years.