WIVB News Channel 4, September 25, 2007, Tuesday

WVIB.com(News Channel 4), September 25, 2007, Tuesday
UAW Strike Effects Other Companies
http://www.wivb.com/Global/story.asp?s=7127435
Sep 25, 2007 06:30 PM EDT

(Buffalo, NY, September 25, 2007) - - All eyes are on the GM strike as the ripple effect is already being felt. News 4's George Richert begins our team coverage from the picket line in the Town of Tonawanda.

GM employee, "The american dream is not dead, the union is not dead."

Current and former GM workers walked the picket line together because they say it's about all of them.

Joe Guadagno, GM retiree, "Well, I'm so proud of my union brothers and reps for finally mustering the courage to stand up for retirees and healthcare and the benefits that were promised us."

The United Auto Workers say this is mostly about healthcare for retirees and job security in the future.

Peter Masich, President of UAW #774, "Our jobs have been leaving this country, are leaving."

The jobs are leaving because the cars can be made more cheaply in other countries. Have they had it too good; are the days numbered for $25 an hour manufacturing jobs, with pensions and guaranteed benefits. Union and non-union workers across america better hope not according to Labor Relations Expert Arthur Wheaton.

Arthur Wheaton, Cornell University's International Labor Relations School, "They're the ones who brought you the weekend. There is no requirement for vacations, etc. It was negotiated by organized labor, much of which by the UAW. The UAW is fighting not just for GM, but Ford and Chrysler, whatever GM employees get will be dependent on what UAW gets."