THE WORKER strike at Intercast and Forge might be turning nasty, with metal workers at the foundry threatened with being locked out.
The latest development comes as negotiations for a new collective agreement hit the wall. According to the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU), the company is trying to reduce employment standards because of high debts incurred by the company.
The union, workers and management have been trying to negotiate a new collective agreement since November 2007, and the current agreement expired in February 2008.
Two weeks ago, union members took protected industrial action, pushing for a 5% pay rise and a three-year agreement.
Toyota, PBR and ZF have asked the Australian Industrial Relations Commission to suspend or cancel the Bargaining Period under S430/S433 of the Workplace Relations Act. They fear a lockout would threaten the supply of important parts to auto component makers and car plants.
