Caterpillar Begins “Rolling Layoffs” in Pontiac

Caterpillar Inc. has instituted rolling layoffs at its Pontiac plant. The move allows the plant to furlough its work force for a time while remaining in operation.

The acting president of United Auto Workers Local 2096 says the plant will shut down for the week of March 23 and then again for the week of April 13. The plant employs about 700 people, including 520 union members.

Caterpillar spokesman Jim Dugan says the company has announced a wide range of actions as it tries to deal with the slow growth in the global economy.

The Peoria-based company on Tuesday also announced plans to lay off more than 2,400 employees at five plants in Illinois, Indiana and Georgia. In Illinois, more than 1,700 workers at plants in East Peoria and Aurora are affected.