Chrysler and the C.A.W.

Kenny says: No concessions, pattern bargaining just like always. well Kenny...

The Letter from Chrysler to their employees: The letter warned that the “clock is ticking. The letter outlined the company’s proposals to offset costs, “without affecting base wages and pensions.” They include:

• Prescription drug dispensing fees, by eliminating the cap results in estimated savings of $2.16 per hour.

• Elimination of out-of-province health care coverage (snowbirds), with employees and retirees assuming responsibility for any coverage results in a cost savings of $1.00 per hour.

• The change from semi-private hospital room coverage to “ward” coverage saves an estimated $0.97 per hour.

• Elimination of life insurance for current and future employees results in a cost savings of $1.54 per hour.

• The reduction of shift premiums to 2.5 per cent results in a cost savings of $.80 per hour.

• The elimination of non-traditional benefits such as child care, legal services, tuition reimbursement, dependent scholarships and extended health care coverage (chiropractic services, massage therapy, naturopath, orthotics, etc.) results in a cost savings of $0.73 per hour.

Well... it's a new world, new expectations, the unions no longer carry the weight and power they've brandished for so long. Jobs are not for life, the company is not responsible nor can they carry us from cradle to grave. We're back to a time where you earn your keep, you merit the raise or the promotion. There are plenty of places in the world willing to do these jobs for much, much less. I'm not going to comment on the benefits these folks have enjoyed for so many years, I really had no idea how good they've had it!