January 10, 2012 at 10:02 AM
The CAW and GTAA have met over the past four months to jointly review the four benefit plans which currently cover the CAW membership, in order to consolidate these plans as outlined inAppendix Lof the collective bargaining agreement.
Unfortunately the two groups were unable to resolve all of the outstanding issues. As a result the matter was referred to Mr. Tom Hodges, the arbitrator agreed upon by the parties and on Wednesday December 21, 2011 the CAW and GTAA met with Mr. Hodges.
Mr. Hodges issued a decision that stated in part; "the parties are directed to meet on January 16, 2012 with a view to deal once and for all with these eminently resolvable differences. The parties may choose to examine other options in the quest of cost neutrality. Should that session not spawn the requisite meeting of the minds, the arbitrator will reconvene the hearing on January 31, 2012, and following final argument from both parties, decide the matter accordingly.”
As per the arbitrator's order dated January 5, the CAW and the GTAA have arranged to meet on January 16, 2012.
We will continue to keep you informed as the matter unfolds.
In Solidarity,
Ata Ugursoy
Chairperson, District 333