USA: The following statement regarding the status of the big-three unions' merger was released by the International President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Tom Buffenbarger, and his counterparts, Steve Yokich of the United Auto Workers and George Becker of the United Steelworkers of America.
"The Presidents of all three unions have held many meetings since July 1995, when the Unification process began. During this process, the three unions have worked together on organizing, legislative and political matters, coordinated bargaining and other activities.
"However, the UAW and USWA are closer in structures at the Local and International level than the IAM. The three Presidents have agreed that the UAW and USWA will take the next step in the Unification process by conducting immediate discussions to join their two unions together.
"During this process, the three unions will continue to meet and continue their ultimate goal of reaching Unification of all three unions."
The three unions are affiliated to the International Metalworkers' Federation. For more information on the merger, access the IAM's website.