Q&A - Your
source for "Rumor Control"!
Current Q&A - January, 2007
NOTE : for submissions prior to August
5th, 2008 click on the "Q&A Archive" link above
Submitted date
06/19/09
Q)
Was just wondering if they are
having a union picnic this year or has it all ready taken place.
If it has not and you are going to have it just let me know
where and when.
Response date
06/24/09
A) Last board meeting on
6/16 involved discussions regarding the picnic. Currently quotes
on Silver Lake and other facilities are being checked out. Keep
in mind anything that is setup will be on a scaled down version
from what the picnic used to be. I feel it is important to have
something so that retirees and each unit can have an avenue to
be together outside of work.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
06/15/09
Q)
Can a company close the doors of a
union shop without offering severence?
Response date
06/17/09
A) Yes, if the language
doesn't require them to do so. However, it is always the goal of
the UAW to negotiate a severance or some sort of closure
agreement.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
(A submission was received that did not contain a question but
was a response to a previous submission so it is going to be
posted.)
Thank you for your
comments.
In Solidarity - Jamie Vaughn, Webmaster - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
06/03/09
(No Question and no response needed) I
attended the informational meeting on the latest agreement
addendum last week at our union hall. It was sad to see how many
people actually showed up to vote on this historic concessions
agreement. I counted about 3 dozen people with only 4 retirees.
I was the only pre-retiree in attendance. Being still on the
active rolls, I was still able to vote. As always, retirees
don't get to vote on contractual issues for the active
workforce, but the informational meetings were always heavy in
attendance with retirees in my recollection of the 4 locals I've
been a member of, but especially local 696. Granted, there are
only a fraction of active members on the books as compared to
when we first hired in but think of how many thousands of
retirees who were affected by this vote where only about 3 dozen
were there, of which all were not contractually allowed to vote.
The active workforce has taken a beating in the last few
contracts and I am very thankful for the remaining benefits I
still have. I am confident that in my lifetime, we will in some
way regain some or all of the benefits we lost which were fought
for and gained by our predecessors. These economic times are
very hard on organized labor and we do recognize a need to do
whatever's necessary to keep as much as we can for as long as we
can, especially with the unlevel global playing field we've
inherited. In essence, our current leaders are making choices
and decisions far harder than at any time in the history of our
great union just to keep as many benefits as possible concerning
wages, job specifics and healthcare. If you say you weren't
aware of this concessions contract, you must not read the
newspaper, magazines, or watch television or listen to the
radio. If that's the case, you probably won't read this either.
I'm glad the contract concessions were approved by the
membership because if we'd gone before the bankruptcy court
without a palatable contract approved by both sides, they would
in turn decide for us what would remain as the court's version
of our agreement. Thanks to those who did vote at the two
meetings and again I am very thankful for my union and what it's
principles and philosophies represent. And also, thank you to
all those who we've elected to represent us to make these
difficult decisions on our behalf currently and in the past.
In Solidarity & as always A Pal Of the UAW
Submitted date
06/01/09
Q)
can people from columbus spo
transfer to jgo and west chester and take jobs.
Response date
06/03/09
A) Although things seem
to change daily, the current position is that they cannot flow
to JGO or SPO.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
05/26/09
Q)
why is needmore rd,davison rd and
flint east not being offered sap's?
Response date
06/03/09
A) I know that Davison
Rd. has cluster work that the Corporation would like to exit out
of. It was told to us that in order to get an SAP at that
location they would have to give that work up. The UAW was not
willing to forfeit this work. Local 696 was given the last SAP
in 2008 because the International worked to get JGO employees GM
employees and they forfeited 350 out of the 700 jobs promised,
knowing that those jobs would probably never be identified
anyway. Giving things up is not an option, as well as, the wages
being lower at these facilities don't help when it comes to
being offered a SAP. I don't know for sure but most of the
employees in these facilities are receiving buydowns as well.
The Corporation is probably looking at all of these things when
they make their decisions. Most of the GM system needs people to
exit facilities, Davison Rd. and former Needmore Rd. employees
are working in facilities that don't need people to exit. These
are all educated guesses on my part, but I believe these are
some of the reasons why.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
06/01/09
Q)
Since General Motors has filed
bankruptcy I would like to know what benefits I still have. For
example, vision and dental coverage. Thank you.
Response date
06/02/09
A) Dental and vision
coverage has been cancelled affective 7/1/09. For further
details contact the Benefits office @ 513-346-6766.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
06/01/09
Q)
I am a delphi retiree what happens
to our pensions now GM has filed for bankruptcy
Response date
06/02/09
A) Since GM assumed
Delphi retirees health care obligations back in approximately
April '09. The changes that were made for GM retirees will apply
to Delphi retirees as well.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
06/01/09
Q)
I also sent an email regarding
this. My husband just got his pension check from GM today and
while Chase Bank cashed it today, they said they would
absolutely not be cashing any checks from GM in the future. Has
anyone else run into this? What are we supposed to do. Also when
will we be told the details of the concession agreement. e.g.
how much are pharmacy co-pays going up? Are all of these
concessions effective immediately?
Response date
06/02/09
A) As of June 1, 2009, I
have not heard of anyone else having these bank issues. The
prescription drug co-pay changes are as follows: retail (34 day
supply) $10 Generic, $25 Brandname, Mail order(90 day supply)
$20 Generic $50 Brand. If there are any other questions or
clarifications to these changes, please contact Benefit
Representative Sheila Blaine at 513-346-6766.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
06/02/09
Q)
I understand retirees will no
longer have dental or eye care coverage. What is the effective
date of this change? Any thing else we need to know?
Response date
06/02/09
A) The effective date of
these changes are, to my understanding, July 1,2009.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
05/29/09
Q)
What are the retiree health care
cuts that take place immediately and what does immediately mean
- what if we are in the middle of medical tests, dental work,etc.?
Where can we get the information we need?
Response date
05/31/09
A) For specifics on
retiree benefits you can contact your benefit representative
Sheila Blaine at 513-346-6766.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
(A submission was received that did not contain a question but
was a response to a previous submission so it is going to be
posted.)
Thank you for your
comments.
In Solidarity - Jamie Vaughn, Webmaster - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
05/30/09
In hopes of being posted.
On behave of the 2006 employees that are at SPO and JG, the last
posting was a slap in our face. You can see that the traditional
employees are out for themselves and not for use. I personaly
find this offensive and hope this gets posted, so the
traditional leadership can see how greedy and selfish they are
being. Us new hires look up to some of them for leadership
advise. In the rough times you can see who you can trust and who
is out for themselves. Traditional employees- I totally
understand your frustrations, but the contract that brought your
pay down is not the 2006 employees faults. Everyone of you have
a chance to get out, so don't blame use. If you want to blame
anybody blame your goverment for passing the trade acts. They
are the ones that set this tone and continue this today. If we
want to keep our jobs, and have all of us retire from GM, we as
a union need to come together and work as a team. I think this
union is divided into three different groups. Trades,Traditional
and 2006 new hires. It is very important that the local
leadership get us all on the same page because if we don't,
management is going to continue to run all over us and weed use
all out.
Submitted date
05/19/09
Q)
Is it true that the Columbus SPO
is closing?
Response date
05/20/09
A) I have heard that
they are closing, but this is unofficial news.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
(A submission was received that did not contain a question. Due
to the information contained in the message it is going to be
posted.)
Thank you for your
comments.
In Solidarity - Jamie Vaughn, Webmaster - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
05/12/09
Just a comment, 2006 people should be
glad to have a job!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There's people in here with
a lot more at stake than THREE years time think about having 26
years and knowing that G.M. is in the position that it is in,
work almost your whole 30 years get that close and have it
yanked away. 2006 think before you speak!!!
Submitted date
04/28/09
Q)
Lets say that James group or West
Chester close and people can flow from plant to the plant. What
is our union going to do for us 2006 employees that pay there
union dues just like the tradition people do but could come in
and nock us out of work. I think us 2006 employees need to be
heard because we are the majority know and we need to think long
and hard about this. It could cost us our jobs the state GM is
in. I don't want to see anybody lose there jobs but i also don't
want to lose mine to.
Response date
05/07/09
A) Local 696 is standing
up for all of its members (including 2006 members) when it
negotiates rights for seniority.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/30/09
Q)
1) Why am I not eligible for
unemployment? I worked for DELPHI (ONLY) for 2 years not GM and
I took the buyout. In the meantime I am taking the opportunity
to go to school through TAA and WIA.
2) How do I get a food voucher for United Appeal from the
office? They will not accept any ID such as driver's license,
union card, etc or could you advise the volunteer's what is an
acceptable ID.
Thank You
Response date
05/05/09
A) I have been advised
to not get involved with unemployment issues, however, I am
still trying to gain information on this issue. Regarding food
vouchers, I am usually at the union hall every Wednesday, feel
free to call the union hall at 937-228-2142 and leave a message
and I will call you back with a time we can exchange the
voucher.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/23/09
Q)
I am a retiree from 2006, Needmore
Rd. Operations.
With everything going on right now, GM threatening bankruptcy
and the possible liquidation of Delphi, who/where do I call to
find out updates to the current issues involved? Are we in
danger of losing all of our pensions and health benefits?
Since being retired, us retiree's are out of the loop, so to
speak.
Thanks.
Response date
04/27/09
A) Some sources of
current information that I sometimes use is www.freep.com,
www.uaw.org, www.pbgc.gov, www.detnews.com.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/12/09
Q)
why dont you provide some
information for the retirees concerning possible loss of our
pensions? what does the federal pension protection plan
guarantee us in the event of a worst case scenario( bankruptcy
with pensions dissolved)?
Response date
04/27/09
A) As stated in previous
posts, it would be speculation on my part to state what would or
could happen as a result of bankruptcy. Here is some of what I
do know. Question: What are the maximum levels of PBGC (Pensions
Benefit Guarantee Corporation) guaranteed benefits if the GM
U.S. Pension Plans were to be terminated? Answer: Per the PBGC
website, "The overwhelming majority of the participants in plans
taken over by the agency face no reduction in benefits due to
the legal limits on coverage, PBGC research shows. The largest
reductions occur in cases where participants earn pensions that
1) significantly exceed the maximum insurance benefit, or 2)
provide generous early retirement subsidies. Under the PBGC's
single-employer insurance program, retirees sometimes can
receive more than the maximum guarenteed benefit. In general,
three conditions must apply: 1) the participant earned a benefit
in excess of the maximum guaranteed amount;2) the participant
retired or was eligible to retire at least three years prior to
plan termination; and 3) the plan had sufficient assets to pay
benefits above the guaranteed amount." The PBGC maximum benefit
in 2009 for a single retiree at age 65 is $54,000 per year. For
a single retiree who retires at age 62(the age at which the U.S.
pension plans provides for an unreduced for age benefit) the
maximum benefit is $42,660 per year. For a single retiree who
retires at age 55 the maximum benefit is $24,300 per year. These
amounts are reduced for retirees who elect a 50% surviving
spouse(joint and survivor) benefit. For more information
regarding the PBGC pension benefit guarantees, you can visit the
PBGC website at www.pbgc.gov.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/19/09
Q)
yIf they shutdown west chester or
trotwood will seniority people be able to go to the existing
building(wich ever is still up and running w.chest. or trotwood)
since there are quite a few low seneiority people at both
facilities? Ive heard they are trying to get this done,and when
do they think it will be done
Response date
04/27/09
A) The national parties
are discussing this situation, however, your leadership feels it
is important to try and get some sort of job security agreement
between JGO and SPO.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/21/09
Q)
wow not a peep in the forum of how
jgo layed off ppl for six weeks and then immediately (im not
exagerating) started doing massive overtime. AS i bleed blue ill
never understand why.
I should possibly only direct questions in this forum. But heck
im on secound shift (no life shift) So suffer me.
Response date
04/22/09
A) Unfortunately this
has been a way of life for all of us. I can remember when I
hired in, and the old guys would say " I can't wait for you to
get laid off, so I can start workin doubles." The overtime that
was worked was our primary argument to bringing those that were
laid off back to work.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
In Solidarity - Brian Cole,
Chairman - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/19/09
Q)
yoy answered a response in an
early posting that "now that g.m. is so close to bankruptcy" how
close are we and how safe are the w.chester and trotwood plants?
Response date
04/22/09
A) I believe close is a
correct statement, however, I don't believe it is certain. I
would love to answer this question and answer it specifically to
our local. Unfortunately to answer this question at this time
would be pure speculation on what would or could happen if GM
filed for bankruptcy.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/21/09
Q)
may sound dumb to you all but get
a person that lays out gamers websites to lay out this website,
They know there stuff, and are even good at layered protection
and the layout of forums. Proper internet forums is actually a
must if you think ya wanna update this old tired format of a uaw
website. Get with the times. or fade away into internet space.
LOL.
Response date
04/22/09
A) If you would be
willing to volunteer your services or know someone that would,
Local 696 would be happy to have your help. In the meantime our
current webmaster is volunteering his own time to do this
website.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/18/09
Q)
Why are our local union reps very
rarely in the plant or on the floor? Brian you are always gone!
Rick makes one trip through the plant a day. Randy M. is rarely
seen and then you all happen to work around the clock to get a
local agreement done, only to not allow the local members to see
what you have agreed on for THREE WEEKS!
Can you tell me why no one from the floor was asked what they
would like to see in the local agreement?
Are any of the local union elected/appointed positions currently
held still receiving standby pay?
Response date
04/22/09
A) The tentative
agreement was wrapped up on 4/9/09, the day before Easter
weekend. In my opinion I had an obligation to review this with
the Executive Board prior to rolling it out, which we did
yesterday at our meeting. Today after work we are going to be
passing out the contract in its entirety. This is the first time
in my recollection that this Union has ever given its members
their tentative contract before they voted on it let alone prior
to the rollout meeting. I hoped that these actions would be
recognized as a good thing, enabling the membership to make an
informed decision. I don't know how you figured three weeks it
will have been seven working days since it was completed until
it reaches your hands.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/16/09
Q)
When do we get our bonus?
Response date
04/22/09
A) Eligibility date is
4/27/09 payable week ending 5/24/09.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/07/09
Q)
Why is Westchester 1. The only SPO
with a Tinner?????(who is not working which should be filled by
Gordo until Brian is done taking care of his trades)2. The only
SPO that only has 1 break and a lunch????? 3. The only SPO that
has a mix of production and trades doing "production" work??? 4.
Also, what is being done to voice the opinion of the production
employees who work next to trades making twice the pay? I have
no personal problem with any trade, just the fact that they took
a production job I was promised which could of got my brother or
family member in!!! 5. Why were trades who were last guaranteed
jobs in the dayton area given my job at their rate!!! 6. Why are
we not rasing hell over all the changes in the agreement from
now to back when we were told all the lies that made us vote for
this crap we have? And don't tell me we are, if we are post the
letters written in the union boxes in the plant along with the
answers for all to see!! I was in A group figuring after the
last buydown I would be around $20 $21, instead went out on
standby to be informed "by my next check" no I'm in C group!
Please answer these questions and post, the whole plant feels
the same way they just might not have the balls to say!!! And,
if I hear one more time we should be glad we have a job??? WTF!!!
We all are, we have one, have for about a year, let's build on
that! It's a kick in the face to see trades making their rate
doing my job, me making half the pay and hearing that!! We have
a job! Now make it fair or get me some Money!!! At least show
you care and write a letter and post it with a response on the
board! If you did then write another one!
Response date
04/14/09
A) 1) What answer do you
want to see? Yes I'm a Tinner, Yes I'm chairman, Yes, I would
love to see Gordo working. Everybody knows these things, at
election time you can fix the chairman part but until then we
have more important things to talk about.
2)The choice was given to the members at SPO about what was more
important having a paid 30 minute lunch and only one 16 minute
week break on a straight 8 hour shift or having a 30 minute
unpaid lunch and two 12 minute breaks. The majority felt that a
paid lunch with a 46 minutes of paid relief time was better so
Randy and I made it happen. By the way we are not the only SPO
with this break structure. On top of all this unfortunately we
have been told that we fall under the Paragraph 4 Personal
relief for certain employees on Pg. 697 of the National
Agreement which states that a max of 24 minutes of paid personal
relief per person per shift is all we get. As the chairman of
this union I feel that seizing the opportunity to get us more
paid relief time than the National Agreement calls for is a good
thing. I do agree that no afternoon break stinks.
3)The Davison road SPO facility also
has trades working in production still receiving their trade
wages. A couple of years ago at a meeting in Detroit we were
informed of this being the practice at a number of plants where
excess trades were and issue. I have no idea how many plants
have this going on, my impression from International is that
there are several.
4)Your statement on number four is way
off base. Every union has the responsibility to get their
members back to work before hiring someone's " brother in law "
5) Management is not going to pay
someone to stay at home and hire someone to do work that they
are capable of, especially GM being so close to bankruptcy.
6) We are one of the few locals that
allow an open forum where their members questions are answered
in front of all to see.
We all understand your frustration, because we all share in it.
No one is happy about Delphi closing, the 400 jobs that we were
promised evaporated, the a + b rates disappearing or any of the
other broken promises that never materialized. To be perfectly
honest I don't believe that we're seen the last of it yet.
In closing, this local has worked hard to protect its members.
Think about what we've been through, be happy we're still here,
able to keep clawing our way out of this hole. Never before has
the UAW and its members or the companies we work for been so
close to the brink of oblivion.
In Solidarity - Brian Cole,
Chairman - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/13/09
Q)
now that G.M. is taken bankruptcy
what is going to happen to our
pensions from delphi.
696 retiree
Response date
04/14/09
A) GM, as of 4/14/09,
has not filed bankruptcy. The details of exiting bankruptcy are
never clear, assuming that GM files in the first place. I
believe this is evident by witnessing what has transpired with
the Delphi reorganization.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/06/09
Q)
I was just recently called back to
work after being on standby for several months. I am to report
to the James Group in April. If there are layoffs in the future,
will it be by lowest seniority first? Or will you be laid off by
the date you were called back to work? Also, if there are
layoffs in the future, will you receive unemployments benefits
or will we be put back on standby status? Thank you.
Response date
04/12/09
A) Layoffs, other than
temporary ones are by seniority, it has nothing to do with the
order in which people entered the plant. Once laid off you would
receive unemployment and applicable sub-pay.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/05/09
Q)
When we were called back to work
at the new plant, we were asked to fill a form out on the job or
jobs we were interested in doing at the plant? Then we were told
that they were filled or no openings at that time. Now come the
skilled trades to the plant, and presto their is an opening on
the trucks. Were these jobs saved for them? I guess since they
still make $30 plus an hour, they deserve a better job. Very
unfair. Also, I don't expect to get a honest answer to this
question, but it will be interesting to see what the response to
it will be.
Response date
04/12/09
A) During the week of
3/30 - 4/3 management made an open offer to train all those in
the plant interested in truck training. If you did not hear
about this contact Brenda Canaan to get signed up for training.
As management increases the amount of parts handlers in the
plant, logic dictates that a greater number of truckers will be
needed to service them.
In Solidarity - Brian Cole,
Chairman - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/06/09
Q)
Why no photo gallery any more?????
Response date
04/07/09
A) The website has been
inactive for sometime now. The goal is to completely go through
the website and update it to be an accurate reflection of Local
696. The local leadership apologizes for the delay and
inconvenience, and has every intention in bringing this site up
to speed.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/03/09
Q)
will we still get the $35,000 in
october, if we go into a "structured" bankruptcey
Response date
04/03/09
A) Good question, I
don't have any reason to believe that we would not receive the
buydown. I also don't believe anyone really knows the full
implications of a bankruptcy. Let's hope GM doesn't have to take
this route to achieve profitability.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
04/01/09
Q)
WHAT ARE YOU INTENDING OR ALREADY
DOING TO FIX THE BUYOUT MESS AND LIES OF UNEMPLOYMENT AND TRA
THAT WAS PROMISED BLAH BLAH BLAH BUT NO ONE HAS BEEN ABLE TO
RECEIVE BECAUSE WE ARE NOT "ENTITLED" TO IT AS THE UNION AND GM
SAID?
Response date
04/03/09
A) When unemployment was
referenced last year in the meeting at the Union Hall, it was
directed at Delphi employees. Soon after this was mentioned in
the meeting, GM management were specific in saying that the
unemployment referenced was for Delphi employees not GM
employees. They were clear in saying that GM employees were not
entitled to these benefits. GM funded the buyouts. I have been
in some contact with the UAW International on this matter and
not much response has been given to me yet. UAW Local 696
understands the concerns, however, the Local is in no position
to give advice on what you owe or are entitled to regarding
unemployment. In closing I have received numerous calls on this
issue, and am exhausting all efforts to get answers.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
03/31/09
Q)
what happens to retirees pensions
if g.m. goes into what obama calls a structured bankruptcy? what
direction has the international given on this?
Response date
04/01/09
A) Many speculations
could be made when referencing bankruptcy and GM, however, at
this time UAW International has not commented or speculated.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/24/08
Q)
Why does it take so long to get
answers to questions answer; theres no one there to
answer the questions. that and this local really has no answers.
tell the the truth
Response date
10/09/08
A) Not sure what the
question is that you want answered, other than the time table
for answering questions. Yes it does take a while to answer
questions on this site, but may ask your questions directly if
you would like.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/24/08
Q)
If your plant preference is West
Chester and you are skilled trades, is it likely that you will
be forced back to work sooner than if your plant preference is
James Group?
Is there a local agreement already in place at either the James
Group or West Chester? If not, will they be made separately or
will one agreement cover both plants?
If you are not protected under the 7 year seniority guarantee,
will you be accruing any GM seniority at either plant once you
begin work there?
Response date
10/09/08
A) The time table is
somewhere before the end of the year for those that want to go
to SPO and possibly after the first of the year for JGO. No
definate dates for either due to the variables, volumes,
differences in work, training, etc.
We are taking steps toward a local agreement, however, a better
understanding of the work is needed to go into full
negotiations. We believe there is strength in numbers therefore
we believe one agreement would be better.
You will accrue plant seniority, but not pension credits, if you
do not fall under the 7 year guarantee.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/25/08
Q)
Has anyone as of TR. the 25th of
Sept. 08, gotten their buyout from delphi Needmore plant?
Response date
10/09/08
A) Yes buyout checks
have been coming as of the last week of September. 4- 6 weeks
was told to us originally and that puts the time table around
mid October at the latest.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/26/08
Q)
After reading the last couple of
replies it sure sounds like Brian Martin has an attitude! Oh and
isn't all the full paid ($30. plus) skilled trades guys doing
the work at the hall?
Response date
10/09/08
A) I believe those union
brothers who donate their time should be acknowledged. Anyone
who truly knows me knows where my heart lies, not in attitudes,
but in doing to the best of my ability what is right for our
members.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/26/08
Q)
why dont you all keep this webpage
updated...seems to me there could be better comunication to
members, exspecially people on stand by....
Response date
10/09/08
A) This webpage will be
updated according to priorities as stated before. Everyone on
standby is fully represented, our goal is to get everyone back
to work. I believe the proof of representation is the fact that
you can remain at home, not at work and receive 40 hours pay.
This alone in today's dismal economy is proof that your Local
and International Union are looking out for you even when your
home. I am proud to know that vacuuming the floor and cooking
breakfast are union jobs as well.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/29/08
Q)
when are the retirees going to get
the raise and back pay that has been promised every since last
year.an honest answer will be appreciated sometime this year
Submitted date
10/03/08
Q)
I received a letter in August from
GM stating that the increase for Delphi retirees would start Oct
1,2008 and be retroactive to Oct 1,2007. Oct 1 is now past and I
still have not received anything. Is there any information about
this situation ?
Response date
10/09/08
A) My understanding,
according to International Union, is that there are
approximately 20,000 Delphi retirees that are affected by this
situation. On October 1st 2008 around 13000 of these retirees
were paid. There are still somewhere around 7000 that have not
been paid. According to the International Union the remaining
retirees will be paid either on November 1st or December 1st
2008.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/12/08
Q)
the picture question was
sarcasim.it just proves the point that someone can ask real
questions that deserve answers in a timely manner but are
overlooked for questions like why havent pics been updated. and
that you will answer them over the tough questions.
Response date
10/02/08
A) Every question is
responded to in a timely matter. Some are attached to previous
posts if they have been answered in the past. Questions are
never prioritized.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/15/08
Q)
I am a former member who recently
took the buyout!!! Thank you all very much for that by the way!!
Now if I am not mistaken we (those who took the buyout )were
encouraged to file for unemployment. In doing so who am I to say
was my employer? Delphi or G.M.?? and when asked what my start
date was do i refer back to my original hire date?? Thanx for
your prompt response!!
In solidarity
Always 696 brother
Response date
10/02/08
A) It is my
understanding that since your last paychecks (while on standby)
were issued by GM that your last employer would have been GM.
Your hire date would be synonymous with your seniority date.
Thanks for your support, even as a severed employee.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/18/08
Q)
i took the buy out but have
medical bills i need to turn in for reinbursment. its my
understanding that we dont have a benefits rep in the dayton
area. how do we file to get our money back? can we drop these
off at the union hall? hopefully i get a response soon. Thank
you, sincerily broke and hungry
Response date
10/02/08
A) Please call the union
hall and request a Benefits Rep. at 937-228-2142.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/18/08
Q)
I posted a question a month ago-no
response. Are we not responding or does anyone know? I haven't
been able to get thru to the union hall for a very long time.
When I call is says mail box unavailable. My question was are
we eligible for unemployment? I was told to file in September.
Even though those who took the buyout, in my opinion should get
that unemployment. The plant CLOSED-bottom line-not our fault!
and if we can't get unemployment, for the 39 or 26 weeks, we
should at least get it for the 4-8 weeks we have to sit with no
income between the stand by pay stopping and until we get the
buy out money in October. That's 4-8 weeks people will go with
no income. If I get approved, because I did file. I hope
nothing happens because I'll go to court-I will not re pay. If
someone would answer my question on here, I wouldn't have to
worry about thinking that may happen. Trying to cover my ass
and get what's entitled to me-so is there anybody out there to
respond? thanks a bunch!!!!!!!
Response date
10/02/08
A) In response to your
comments about contacting someone, the union hall is open M-F
from 7:30-3:30 every week. Tamra, our bookkeeper, Brian Cole,
Tony Curington, Benefits Rep, or myself are there answering
phones during these hours every week. In response to
unemployment it is encouraged that you file, however, as this is
posted the petition for unemployment has not been granted. To
comment on the delay from standby to buyout money, it was told
to everyone considering this buyout option that it would take
4-6 weeks to receive this money. This was communicated in order
for the membership to know that there would be a period without
pay, so adjustments to their budget could be made. Another
option would have been to remain gainfully employed by GM, in
order to continue to receive continual paychecks. Local 696 has
a duty to inform its members the best it can, however, Local 696
doesn't issue buyout checks or claim to be the unemployment
office.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/20/08
Q)
can anyone tell me when we will
receive the next buydown check or did they take that away ?
Response date
10/02/08
A) It has been conveyed
to me through International, that our buydown is due the pay
period following the October 1st.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/18/08
Q)
Greetings. I am a Benefit Rep,
Local 211, GM Powertrain, Defiance, Ohio. We have a member who
hired in GM in1979 and worked for Delphi for a couple of years,
around the 1998 - 2000 time period. This member has a credited
service issue. Fidelity says because of his brief amount of
service with Delphi, all previous service with GM "converted" to
Delphi time. I am trying to obtain contractual language about
this issue. I have been unable to reach anyone by phone - keep
getting a recording that "all circuits are busy". Thank you for
forwarding this to Benefits. Many thanks for your assistance!
Response date
10/02/08
A) Your information will be
conveyed to our Benefits Department. I can be contacted at Local
696 Union Hall at 937-228-2142.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/10/08
Q)
What is being done to address the
needs of the JCI members that have been and will be loosing
their jobs. Why can't we get the same considerations that the
Delphi members?
Response date
10/02/08
A) A meeting was held at
the union hall several weeks ago, that pertained to language on
voluntary layoffs for JCI members. There are also constant talks
between myself , the International Regional Rep, as well as
Martin Williamson and the bargaining committee. These
discussions involve many issues that relate to the situation at
the JCI facility. A good place to convey concerns or to discuss
these issues would be at your monthly membership meeting held
every third Sunday of the month at your Union Hall. I
strongly encourage JCI employees to attend this meeting every
month during these difficult times.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/10/08
Q)
We use to get handbils passed out
to keep us informed, why are we not receiving any communication
from the leadership?
Response date
10/02/08
A) There are updates on
this website pertaining to all of the membership. If information
needs to be conveyed to the membership that is plant specific, a
handbill will be passed out.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/18/08
Q)
Why does it take so long to get
answer to questions on this site. You can't get anyone at the
union hall because there is never anyone there.We can't even get
you to post who our leadership is or how to get in touch with
them. You insinuate that you are busy representing the
membership,how many members do we have,350? how in the hell did
you guys ever represent 1500 members? where is the
representation that we are paying dues for.what is so hard about
putting their pictures,names and phone numbers on this site. Are
we getting what you promised us when you were wanting our vote?
Response date
09/30/08
A) The word union
references that everyone is involved. Your volunteered time like
mine would be greatly appreciated.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/04/08
Q)
Why are they still taking vacation
time out of are checks. I just got mine today with the pay
ending date 8-31-08. Also they are not paying the money. Who do
I need to talk to?
Thank You
Response date
09/30/08
A) Vacation was taken
for the second week of shutdown. If you had none but recieved a
check for that week, that money will be removed from your check
in consecutive weeks. Many different situations has arose
from this issue. In order to get an exact answer, please contact
your benefit rep. at 228-2142.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/10/08
Q)
I notice that your response to a
lot of questions is to call the union hall.Everytime i call the
hall i can never get to speak to anyone because they are
busy,not there,in a meeting and if you leave a message, no one
ever calls you back. i can't see why that questions cannot be
answered on this site or why we can't get in touch with our
represenatives.I know they have cell phones, why can't they be
called directly?
Response date
09/30/08
A) The Union Hall is open
M-F from 7:30-3:30, the phones are always answered, messages are
always conveyed, you can even show up in person.
Representatives such as myself may be at JCI, Jamestown, JGO, or
SPO or all of the above at any given day. There are also
committeeman that are at each unit as well. It is never
the intent of Local 696 to not be of assistance. The best
way to contact any and all reps. is to contact your Union Hall
or ask questions at the monthly membership meetings.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/10/08
Q)
is the james gruop a gm plant.
Response date
09/30/08
A) James Group Inc. is
its own company, but the employees that are housed at JGO are
leased from GM by JGO. Therefore they are GM employees working
for JGO.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/06/08
Q)
Is there any word of exactly when
the buy out checks will be sent to us.
Submitted date
09/11/08
Q)
BRIAN MARTIN OR BRIAN COLE
ARE THEY EVER GOING TO GET OUR DHECKS STRAIGHTENED OUT IM STILL
GETTING 14.43 AND HR. AND WHEN WILL THEY BE CALLING ME BACK TO
WORK AT JAMES GROUP,,,,,,4TH TIME ENTERED THESE QUESTIONS AND NO
RESPONSE
Response date
09/30/08
A) As stated previously,
the issue regarding 14.43 vs.14.87 will be adjusted and back pay
will be granted for the lost wages. It has recently been
reported to me that some have been fixed(date 9/28/08). The next
group to JGO will report no earlier than the end of October.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/21/08
Q)
Has there been a specifc date for
when we will get our buyout checks?
Response date
09/28/08
A) No, some have started
to receive them already. However there is still a 4-6 week
expectation.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
(A submission was received that did not contain a question. Due
to the information contained in the message it is going to be
posted.)
Thank you for your
comments.
In Solidarity - Jamie Vaughn, Webmaster - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/16/08
I must first thank GOD, from whom all
Blessing Flow. I was hired (2006) as a temp. with a lot of the
folks airing complaints or praise on this site. In my 30plus
years of being gainfully employed this was one of the better
jobs I've ever had.
Here's my reasons for reaching this conclusion: UAW was there
providing representation when I was late, UAW successfully
directed me when I needed an extended leave ASAP (without
quitting my job)-Thanks Sue, UAW stepped up time after time
rescuing the young folks around me with work related issues when
there job was in jeopardy.
This two year job was a Blessing for me. NO employer will
give you a severance of $70,000.00 after TWO YEARS of employment
(if you so chose that option), along with a fully paid summer
vacation. Please be mindful of all the UAW does and still do for
us when you submit questions.
THANK-YOU, to all UAW-696 Elected and Appointed Officers.
Especially Brian#1
Submitted date
09/10/08
Q)
Why does it take so long to get
answers to questions.?
Response date
09/12/08
A) Your chairman, Brian
Cole, travels from JGO to SPO daily, he has also spent countless
hours answering the needs of the members at the Union Hall.
He is also involved in repairs being done to the Hall as well.
There are many issues being addressed by your Bargaining
Committee and Chairman every day. Keep in mind Cole
receives no money or incentives for doing these duties. These
duties are done, in my opinion, because Brian Cole truly cares
about his Local Union and its members. Your President, in
addition to the duties that Brian Cole holds, also has
responsibilities with JCI and Plastech (Jamestown) as well.
These members of Local 696, as well as, members at JGO and SPO
are experiencing very trying, and difficult times. These
needs, I feel, are far more pressing than the posts. I do
believe these posts are very important to our members, however,
and require your leaderships attention as quickly as possible.
Please be patient in the future, and we will be as expedient as
possible on these posts. If you have a question that needs
to be answered ASAP please call the Union Hall at 937-228-2142.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/01/08
Q)
Is September 15 still the date for
then next James Group to start training? Or when will the next
call be?
Thank You!
Response date
09/03/08
A) James Group has
pushed back their next date, tentatively till the first week of
October.
In Solidarity - Brian Cole,
Delphi Shop Chairman - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
09/02/08
Q)
its nice to know your priorities.
havent changed cause i have asked a couple of good questions on
this site but once again you refuse to answer the real questions
thanks for nothing
Q) Are there new pictures of the new
executive board to be posted yet?
Response date 08/22/08
A) This is a good point, and has been brought up several times.
We will up date this as soon as possible.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin, President - UAW Local 696
Response date
09/03/08
A) Our priorities are A)
getting members back to work B) helping our members at JCI and
Plastech (Jamestown) get through layoffs C) Dealing with SPO and
JGO on issues that affect our members D) painting the hall and
immediate and emergency maintenance E) trying to come up with a
budget in which Local 696 can afford all these things as well as
our bookkeeper. F) preparing to organize some indirect labor
forces surrounding JGO and SPO. These are our top
priorities, if getting these pictures posted is as urgent an
issue as you make it seem, set aside some of your time, bring
your digital camera to the hall. We will help you call the
new officers home to schedule a time. This union belongs to all
of its members. With Local 696 becoming a smaller local, people
like you, that see things that need to be addressed, should step
up and help out.
In Solidarity - Brian Martin,
President - UAW Local 696
Submitted date
08/05/08
Q)
So, GM was supposed to pay us our
rate that we were earning at Delphi until we start work at West
Chester or The James Group, but they changed it at the last
minute. And to add insult to injury GM ended up taking our
vacation time for the second week in July even though we were
told they would not. If you had no vacation time left, guess
what, you get to pay back that 40 hours?! What is going on?!
Does GM want to piss us off at every opportunity? Is any of this
negotiable or is it set in stone?
Response date
09/03/08
A) These are all issues
that have been negotiated by International and corporate.
In Solidarity - Brian Cole,
Delphi Shop Chairman - UAW Local 696
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