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December 22, 2009

Brothers and Sisters,

            I’d like to start out by wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and hope for a better New Year. Be safe and enjoy your family and friends through out the holiday season.

            Once again, I apologize for not updating the Presidents desk often enough. Things around here change so frequently, that before I can comment on them, they change again. So, please understand it is difficult to speak on many issues, let alone write a commentary.

            We have gone through some tremendous change this past year. I’m sure I don’t have to tell anyone about the heartache and headaches we have gone through. After the modifications to our 2007 CBA, bankruptcy and restructuring of the Company, we are now faced with WCM. Our new operating system is WCM; however I’d like to state for a matter of record, “WE STILL HAVE A CONTRACT”.

This local Union supports WCM and understands the importance of its implementation. However, we have not and will not “give up the farm”. Management seems to think they have been given a divine right to do as they please, regardless of our current contracts. The contract modification does not give them the right to make unilateral moves or ignore this Local Union. The entire “side bar” negotiating with individuals on the floor, allowing them to “cut their own hog”, must come to an end. Those folks that are making their own deal need to remember: A right lost to one, is a right lost to all.

Managements mode of operation has always been divide and conquer. They also understand it is easier to control scared masses. Again, I understand the importance of the implementation of WCM. However, I will not stand for their scare tactics as a ruse to usurp our agreements.

We have the absolute best workforce bar none. I know we can make WCM a success. It is imperative that we all keep doing the best job we can, making the best parts, and meeting our production goals. Also, hold your BUL and other members of management accountable to uphold your rights under the agreement. Follow the WCM process and hold management to that process as well. They have no problem holding you accountable and leaving you to shoulder the blame. If they don’t want to do something they simply blow it off and claim it’s a cost and sweep it under the rug. Hold them to task, and make them do their job!

In regards to the members that were forced to Trenton Engine Plant, I haven’t heard anything at all about when you all might be able to return. For me, your return couldn’t happen soon enough. Unfortunately, I have no control over that. As bad as the situation might seem, I am grateful that everyone is gainfully employed instead of on the street and unemployed. As soon as I hear any word about anyone returning to the plant, I will have it posted for those of you in Trenton.

In closing, I’d like to remind you all, this is YOUR Union! Get involved. Come to the Union meetings, join a committee. Help us make this Union stronger. United we stand, divided we beg.

Again, I wish you all a very Happy Holiday, and wonderful New Year! Have fun, be safe, God bless. See you next year.

In Solidarity,
David W. DeMoss