DETROIT, March 29 (UPI) -- The United Auto Workers says Michigan-based Delphi Corp.'s latest contract proposal is a non-starter.
Though better than two previous offers, it still means a "devastating impact" on the bankrupt auto supplier's workers and their families, and cannot be submitted to workers in its current form, UAW Vice President Richard Shoemaker said.
Last Friday, Delphi offered to pay union workers $50,000 in exchange for 35-percent wage cuts.
Significantly, though, Shoemaker signaled a willingness to keep talking with Delphi -- provided Delphi withdraws a threat to begin voiding existing labor contracts by Friday without a wage concession deal, the Detroit News said Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the chairman of the International Union of Electrical Workers, said Delphi offended his union by trying "to cram these proposals down our throats" at the last minute.
"Your assertion that you hope to reach an agreement this week on a new agreement is ludicrous," said Henry Reichard, who represents 12,500 Delphi workers and retirees. "Your letter is nothing more than lip service to the idea of negotiations while you prepare your motion to rip up these contracts."
The IUE already has voted to strike Delphi, the nation's largest auto parts supplier, if Delphi cancels contracts.
