UAW Workers React To Possible Concessions
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Updated: 10:19 PM Dec 3, 2008
UAW Workers React To Possible Concessions
Some Lansing Grand River employees are fired up over a possible renegotiation.
Posted: 5:50 PM Dec 3, 2008
Reporter: John Tramontana
Email Address: john.tramontana@wilx.com
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"Times are tough."

Perhaps it's a cliche, or maybe an understatement as the big three struggle to survive. But UAW members are ready to give up whatever they need to to save the company.

"For job security. For our jobs."

"I think it's probably necessary" said Kathy Lischkge. "Everybody's got to do their part. We've got to keep this company going."

Many of the UAW members we spoke to today say they're prepared to do whatever's necessary to keep General Motors going strong. But there were a handful of others who said the union has already given up too much, especially in the last round of contract talks.

"The last contract we gave up a lot and that has not been mentioned," said rick Alleman.

"We've given them plenty of concessions in the last agreement if people really knew what we gave up," said Joe Cantin.

Just one year after the UAW agreed to slash pay and give up other benefits, the cutting may be far from over. The union may now delay payments to a health care trust and even eliminate the jobs bank.

"We're going to have to be creative and create ways to help gm out in tough times. We've got to sell cars," said Darren McDonald. "There are a lot of jobs at risk and it impacts the community."

All workers seem to agree that concessions are still better than not having a job. If even one of the big three were to go under, millions of jobs would be lost.


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