Union: Expect More Short-Term Caterpillar Layoffs

A union that represents Caterpillar Inc. workers says short-term layoffs at Peoria-area plants will continue. The layoffs started in January and were expected to end in April.

Randy Smith is executive vice president of United Auto Workers Local 974. He told The Journal Star in Peoria that some workers will continue to be sent home through May.

Caterpillar spokesman Jim Dugan did not provide details. But he said the company will continue to with short-term layoffs as needed to keep production in line with demand.

The Peoria-based heavy equipment maker has said demand for many of its products is off and the company's inventory is higher than it needs to be. Caterpillar blames economic slowdowns in Europe and China.