By David Shepardson

(Reuters) -A union representing hanging machinists at Boeing (NYSE:) mentioned on Friday it’s “actively engaged in oblique discussions” with the planemaker which might be being facilitated by Performing U.S. Labor Secretary Julie Su.

“We’re absolutely dedicated to those talks. It’s our duty to try to achieve a decision,” mentioned the Worldwide Affiliation of Machinists and Aerospace Staff Native 751 in a social media put up.

Round 33,000 of Boeing’s unionized West Coast staff, most in Washington state, have been on strike since Sept. 13, demanding a 40% wage enhance unfold over 4 years and halting manufacturing of the planemaker’s best-selling 737 MAX and its 767 and 777 widebodies.

The talks are the primary signal of motion within the greater than one-month-old strike since Boeing on Oct. 8 withdrew its newest provide that included a 30% wage enhance over 4 years, after talks additionally attended by federal mediators broke down. Boeing subsequently filed an unfair labor apply cost in opposition to the union.

Boeing declined quick touch upon Friday.

Final Friday, Boeing introduced it could minimize 17,000 jobs, or 10% of its international workers and take $5 billion in prices, persevering with a yr of tumult for the corporate.

Boeing introduced a window for as much as $25 billion in inventory and debt choices over the subsequent three years on Tuesday, in addition to a $10-billion credit score settlement.

On Monday, Su was in Seattle for her first in-person effort to assist attain a deal. A spokesperson for Su declined touch upon Friday.

In September, practically 95% of the West Coast staff rejected Boeing’s contract provide of a 25% pay rise over 4 years, prompting the strike.