Detroit water workers union: 5-day strike over

DETROIT -- The union representing Detroit Water and Sewerage workers says a five-day strike has ended and that 36 employees fired for walking out will get their jobs back.

American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees Local 207 said in a statement Thursday that its executive board voted to end the strike after negotiations with management.

The union struck Sunday to protest Detroit's plan to downsize the department and eliminate most of the jobs in the department over several years.

Local President John Riehl is claiming victory and says the union "will return to the bargaining table immediately."

Hearings are scheduled for the fired employees who work at a wastewater treatment plant in southwest Detroit.

The Associated Press left email messages Thursday seeking comment from Mayor Dave Bing's office.