Production ends at historic Windsor Casting Plant

Production at the 73-year-old Windsor Casting Plant ended today as Ford Motor Company continues to transform its North American automotive operations into a profitable and sustainable business.

"It is a tribute to the employees at the Windsor Casting Plant that they have achieved outstanding productivity levels with consistently high quality throughout this year, right down to the last engine block produced," said Adrian Vido, Windsor site manager, Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. " The company's decision to move away from in-house casting operations is based on a thorough analysis of our business and a need to focus on our core operations. While difficult, these are the right actions for Ford's future."

The company also recently announced that it will end casting production at the Ford facility in Cleveland, Ohio.

The Windsor Casting Plant opened in 1934 and most recently employed 500 people. It produces cylinder block castings for 4.2-litre V6 engines and crankshafts for 4.2-litre V6, 5.4-litre V8, 3.0-litre V6, 4.6-litre V8 and 2.3-litre engines. The plant is also one of the largest recyclers of iron and steel in Southern Ontario. All the steel used in the cylinder blocks and crankshafts is recycled material.

"For decades, workers at the Windsor Casting Plant have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to quality workmanship and pride in a job well done. They leave the plant today with their heads held high," said Mike Vince, president, Canadian Auto Workers Local 200.

Working with the CAW, Ford of Canada has offered financial assistance packages worth up to $100,000 to help employees in Windsor retire, or move their careers in new directions. The company has also partnered with the Ontario government to open an employment counseling and training centre specifically for Ford employees impacted by the restructuring. Programs and services for these workers include: job-search assistance, training information, vocational and educational counseling, personal support in dealing with the stress of job loss, financial counseling and information about starting a small business.