Our local elected representatives acknowledge that they have been contacted by worker representatives at Arnprior Aerospace regarding the announced closure of the plant, slated for March 6th of 2024.
According to Tom Lowe, Chief Steward and Vice-President, seventy-one members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local Lodge 15-42 were advised they’d be out of work on the Monday before Christmas.
Lowe says that although the workforce at Arnprior Aerospace is just a small fraction of the once 800-plus who punched time cards, the loss of the good-paying jobs is certain to have a ripple effect.
Arnprior Mayor Lisa McGee is thankful we live in a supporting community.
The Mayor agrees the announcement’s timing was most unfortunate, and anticipates there will be intense discussions between municipal partners (or singularly) beginning in early January.
However, McGee says the Town’s role is likely restricted to Zoning matters, facilitating transfer or purchase of what will become the former Arnprior Aerospace property.
Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP John Yakabuski agrees the bad news was ill-timed.
Yakabuski says often the local impacts are not fully considered by those in positions to decide the consequences.
MP Cheryl Gallant anticipates meeting the workers this week.
The member of parliament says the Federal Government recently cut a deal with Boeing, and missed a golden opportunity to specify Canadian content in the contract.
The Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MP notes the Federal Government not meeting its NATO commitment of 2 percent GDP has had both long term and immediate impacts.
Of the three Arnprior Aerospace facilities in Oregon, Chihuahua State in Mexico and locally, the parent plant is the only one slated for closure.
By Rick Stow
