January 23, 2006
January 23, 2006
LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today issued the following statement regarding the restructuring plan unveiled by Ford Motor Company this morning:
“This is disappointing news for Michigan and for the Michigan families who are most affected by this announcement, but I believe that the tough business decisions announced this morning will help the company regain its financial footing so it can continue to be an industry leader for decades to come.
“My first thoughts today are with the workers and the families who are most affected by today’s announcement. This is a difficult situation, and my administration will do everything in our power to help the Ford workers who are affected by the company's restructuring.
“Today's news underscores the importance of both diversifying Michigan's economy to make it less reliant on auto manufacturing alone and continuing to do everything we can to be a supportive partner to our state's largest employers. Ford Motor Company, Ford employees, and the State of Michigan have all done their part to ensure the company's competitiveness in the new global marketplace. The time has long since past for the leaders in Washington to do their part for our American manufacturers. They have the power to enact fair trade policies and health care assistance that will help level the playing field with countries that are competing for our jobs and our business. The time for them to use their power to stand up for America's manufacturers is long overdue.”
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