In a development that has sent shockwaves through the Windsor-Essex community, the Windsor Assembly Plant has announced a drastic change to its work schedules for the next 12 weeks. This decision is poised to not only affect the assembly line but also local feeder plants that rely heavily on its operations.

Unifor Local 195 President Emile Nabbout expressed deep concerns during an appearance on AM800's 'Mornings with Mike and Meg'. He deemed the announcement from Stellantis as unfortunate, echoing the worries of many workers in the community. "When the assembly plant halts production, our members inevitably face layoffs," Nabbout warned, emphasizing the looming anxiety among workers.

The changes in schedule will mean some weeks of full production, others with only a single shift operational, and some where the plant might be completely shut down. This unpredictability has left workers grappling with uncertainty about their livelihoods.

Nabbout highlighted the emotional toll such disruptions take on workers, saying, "People are anxious; they have families to care for and bills to pay. These interruptions in their work lives were not expected, and they come with countless questions and concerns." He reaffirmed that the union is committed to supporting its members through this turbulent period.

The previous two-week halt in production at the Windsor Assembly Plant earlier this year already affected approximately 800 members of Local 195, setting a troubling precedent.

As for the future, the anticipated addition of a third shift has been postponed until 2026, which is another blow to both current employees at the Windsor Assembly Plant, known for manufacturing the Chrysler Pacifica minivan and the all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona, and the 4,500 workers at Unifor Local 444 and associated feeder plants.

With the palpable tension in the air, the community watches with bated breath, hoping for stability in the automotive sector and reassurance for workers and their families.