"A great day for our city."
That's how Unifor Local 200 President Chris Taylor describes today's major announcement from Ford.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne will join top executives from the automaker at the Essex Engine plant for a news conference.
"I can't get into too many details other than to say that we were successful in 2016 bargaining in negotiating product and investment for our site that's going to give our members security and put longevity into our operations here in Windsor," says Taylor.
During contract negotiations with the union last fall, Ford committed to investing $600-million dollars in its Windsor operations.
Taylor says it's amazing to think the Essex Engine Plant was shuttered by Ford in 2007, only to re-open three years later when the company revived its engine operations in Windsor. "Essex Engine Plant was the first plant that was ever re-opened after a closure. And what a success story. Ford Motor Company holds that plant in high regard. Five-litre engines going into F-150 and Mustang, a very integral part of Ford's business obviously."
Taylor says the announcement benefits the 1,500 workers at Ford's three plants -- Essex Engine, Windsor Engine and Windsor Annex.
He says there are currently 280 members on layoff.
AM800 will carry today's news conference 'live' starting just after 9:30am.
AM800's Patty Handysides will have a one-on-one interview with the Prime Minister at 3:20pm on 'The Afternoon News'.