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WASHINGTON, Aug. 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), Local 1947, today overwhelmingly rejected a proposal from Mercury Marine that would eliminate pensions, jobs and health care for thousands of Wisconsin workers and their families.

"Mercury Marine never intended for this offer to be accepted," said IAM Midwest Territory Vice President Philip Gruber. "Despite progress on every major issue and a commitment by the IAM to continue bargaining, the company balked in the final hours and added terms and conditions that assured members would reject the offer."

Mercury Marine repeatedly claimed a yes vote would preserve jobs and keep the company headquartered in Fond du Lac, however, the company refused to make that commitment in writing, leaving many employees convinced the company fully intended to move production out of Fond du Lac, regardless of the vote outcome.

"Mercury Marine has been threatening these workers and this community for weeks," said Gruber. "Some companies may hint at dire consequences as a bargaining tactic, but rarely do we see such extortion in plain view. It's unethical, it's un-American and I respect any worker who stands up and refuses to be bullied.

"Despite the outcome of today's vote, we will always work with Mercury Marine to improve quality, reduce unit cost and protect the brand," said Gruber. "We are open to meet with the company to discuss these matters in good faith."

The IAM is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America, representing nearly 700,000 active and retired members in dozens of industries. For more information about the IAM, visit www.goiam.org.