UPDATE: UAW President Ron Gettelfinger told reporters the UAW was taking matters between Delphi and the UAW “to the next step.”
“We are moving forward internally, because this thing has gone on long enough and people have taken advantage of the situation,” said Gettelfinger, seemingly accusing Delphi executives of abusing the bankruptcy process.
These developments follow a report from the Automotive News which said Delphi’s latest proposal to the UAW has generated significant anger amongst the rank and file at the Flint East plant where union officials disclosed details from the management proposal. UAW sources have said that at least one of the union’s regions has been told to prepare for a strike.
Additionally several sources told the Automotive News that union officials have instructed the locals get ready for potential job actions. A strike at the parts maker would cripple General Motors, shutting down the auto giant.
Delphi’s new proposal is said to include new hires being paid less than the $14 starting wage, no cost of living adjustments in the contract, and massive cuts to healthcare and pension benefits.
Most UAW represented employees at the Delphi plants are new because older workers took the GM buyout offer to avoid what amounted to an 80% in pay and benefits.
