I think that there is a certain head of the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) union that requires a healthy dose of reality and a smack up side his head.Ken Lewenza apparently continually cites previous ‘mega-million dollar concessions’ the CAW and its membership has made to Chrysler, Ford and of course, General Motors. Mr. Lewenza is reluctant to talk with Chrysler and its President, Tom LaSorda who has stated that for Chrysler to remain viable, CAW workers must reduce their hourly compensation package by $19 per hour, bringing CAW workers in line with non-union workers at Japanese automotive makers, Toyota and Honda.
People, the hourly wage and benefit package proposed is $57. $57. Per hour.
Mr. Lewenza further blusters that, “The company (Chrysler) has certainly drawn a line in the sand.”
Federal Industry Minister Tony Clement has also publicly stated that these cuts be made to assist in saving the company.
While to me, a life long-not-employed-by-anyone-remotely-connected-to-the-automotive-industry sees little wrong with the manufacturers and the government’s position, I must admit I have a hard time dealing with the inane and obviously selfish rhetoric being spewed by Mr. Lewenza.
Mr. Lewenza stated for the record that the economy would suffer worse if they (CAW) considered and accepted the proposal from Chrysler because autoworkers would have less to spend.
Perhaps this union boss would do well to consider the economic implications of a life with no Chrysler, no Ford or no General Motors. As visions of picket lines dance fervently in his head, what, Mr. Lewenza would the economic impact be then?
While I am not a supporter of North American automotive manufacturers or unions, I do support the occasional dose of harsh reality and acts of realism.
Wake up and smell the 10w30, you fool, before you force action that may have drastic implications for more than you and your membership.
Mr. Lewenza further blusters that, “The company (Chrysler) has certainly drawn a line in the sand.”
Federal Industry Minister Tony Clement has also publicly stated that these cuts be made to assist in saving the company.
While to me, a life long-not-employed-by-anyone-remotely-connected-to-the-automotive-industry sees little wrong with the manufacturers and the government’s position, I must admit I have a hard time dealing with the inane and obviously selfish rhetoric being spewed by Mr. Lewenza.
Mr. Lewenza stated for the record that the economy would suffer worse if they (CAW) considered and accepted the proposal from Chrysler because autoworkers would have less to spend.
Perhaps this union boss would do well to consider the economic implications of a life with no Chrysler, no Ford or no General Motors. As visions of picket lines dance fervently in his head, what, Mr. Lewenza would the economic impact be then?
While I am not a supporter of North American automotive manufacturers or unions, I do support the occasional dose of harsh reality and acts of realism.
Wake up and smell the 10w30, you fool, before you force action that may have drastic implications for more than you and your membership.
2 comments:
First of all, what most don't realize is that 'hourly' wage also includes the guy that sweeps the floor in the cafeteria. All the hourly workers wages (including non-union, if there are any) are factored into that ludicrous $57/hr.
So they may need to find efficiencies in the support staff area, other companies have.
When we first moved to the city, we lived next door to an auto (farm equipment) worker who made more that my Father. Dad was a Class A mechanic, diesel and gas, welder, fitter, teacher working for the city, and this guy was a functional illiterate that couldn't figure out his own taxes!
The CAW killed the farm equipment industry in the 80's and will do the same to the auto industry.
Interesting sidebar...Toyota Woodstock (non-union) is working overtime according to news reports today.
http://www.brantfordexpositor.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1532882
Anyways, that's my two cents worth. I can give ya change for a buck if ya want.
Welcome back.
DJW
Thanks, DJ.
Stuff like this makes my blood boil...!
I was away for a week or so but lately have been somewhat swamped.
I have great intentions, but something always seems to get in the way -- like work!
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