Local Negotiations 

We are down to meeting only one day per week and making progress slowly.  Some of the issues we have left are local demands, grievances, and TDO.

Subcouncils

I want to thank the membership for sending the committee to Chicago for subcouncils.  As usual, they were very informational.  These were educational outlines on Document 8 Skilled Trades and National Agreement interpretations. 

Also, a vote was taken on how the understanding of non-core would be applied to each plant.  In a unanimous vote, it was agreed that until January of 2012, members would still be able to exercise their Paragraph 63 rights to classifications considered non-core and it would be managed to a number - which at our plant is currently 451.

Layoffs Due to American Axle Strike

As of March 10, 210 members were laid off and another 280 on March 14.  Current Demand 33 Guidelines state that if you are laid off inverse, you retain your demand job; but if you are off on a reduction of force - you don’t. 

What we agreed upon as a committee was a Memorandum of Understanding that any member that is affected by this strike laid off that was moved to another shift or classification, will retain their demand job.

This was done for 30 days and will be revisited if the strike continues beyond that time.  If that is the case, management is anticipating more layoffs.  Any type of support you could give these striking Brothers and Sisters would be greatly appreciated.

SAP’s

Management is rolling out the options on the  Special Attrition Program Monday and Tuesday, March 17 and 18.  Once again, I would ask that you listen to all of the information and discuss it with whoever you need to, then make a decision on what to do.  Remember – you do not have to go anywhere if you choose not to.

Safety

I have received complaints from some of the crane operators that members are not respecting the cranes.  If there is a crane coming thru your area with a load, please get the heck out of the way  If something breaks or someone makes a mistake, you cannot move fast enough.  So be aware of your surroundings when it comes to the cranes and your safety.

In solidarity,

Steve Rop

Shop Chairman

UAW Local 730