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IMF Warns U.S. on
Looming Deficits IMF economists say that after struggling to bring the US budget into surplus, “all the gains achieved during the earlier decade have disappeared.” The “large U.S. fiscal deficits also pose significant risks for the rest of the world,” the IMF warned. The high debt levels could force up interest rates in the US and the world economy and crowd out private domestic investment. Also, a significant portion of the money to finance U.S. debt comes from overseas. If investors lose confidence in the U.S. economy, the IMF says it “could possibly lead to adverse consequences both domestically and abroad.” American working families also stand to lose. The “evaporation of fiscal surpluses has left the budget even less well prepared to cope with the retirement of the baby boom generation” and puts “massive pressure on the Social Security and Medicare systems. Without the cushion provided by earlier surpluses, there is less time to address these programs’ underlying insolvency before government deficits and debt begin to increase unsustainably.” Click here to read the IMF report (http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/nft/op/227/index.htm)
Hat Trick Plus One for
Local 701 The organizing victories occurred at Patten Industries of Grays Lake, IL, Northwest Valley Dodge in Elgin, IL, Napleton Auto Werks of Loves Park, IL and Finish Line Dodge of Glenview, IL. The IAM Midwest Territory would like to congratulate Business Representatives Ken Malette, Tom Gregg, Bob Keppler and Dave Mullin on their wins.
Justice Prevails for
Florida IAM Member The discharge occurred despite a lengthy investigation that failed to produce any evidence of wrongdoing by Danny Gillman, a member of Local 2460. “To top it off Brother Gillman took a lie detector test at his own expense and passed,” said Grand Lodge Representative Lou Brogna, who was assigned to the case. Following an 18-hour presentation, the arbitrator dismissed the company’s charges and ordered reinstatement and $59,000 in back pay for Brother Gillman. “Congratulations to Brother Gillman, who has seen justice served, and to Brother Brogna and the grievance committee for a job well done,” said Southern Territory GVP Bob Martinez.
“I knew we had the
facts and the truth on our side,” said GLR Brogna,. “It’s a good feeling
when you prevail against an unjust prosecution.” Anyone can vote. Simply click http://www.laborstart.org/lwsoty/ballot.shtml to bring up an official ballot and then scroll down to the IAM’s site to register your choice for the only website completely dedicated to the needs of more than 700,000 active and retired IAM members and their families. Voting will end on Saturday, January 31, 2004, at midnight GMT. Results will be announced on Sunday, February 1, 2004.
Sierra Legal Defense
Fund Votes IAM The main issue for these employees was not money but to have someone to advocate on their behalf, according to Scott Jackson, IAMAW Ontario Organizer. “The fact that these new members work to preserve the environment, doesn’t mean they should be left out in the cold,” said Jackson. “The Machinists are proud they chose us, and we are proud to represent them.” These new IAM members will be a good fit with the Canadian Environmental Network in Ottawa, a group represented by the IAM since 1998. For more information, click http://iamaw.ca/releases/2004/04_01_23_sierra_e.html
District 9 Organizers
Win Two Additionally, District 9 Business Representative Dave Weaver reports success with a hard fought first contract after months of negotiations at Pacific Rail Services in East St. Louis, IL. The 28 new IAM members there load, unload and repair rail cars. The IAM Midwest Territory would like to thank BR Dave Weaver, Organizer Mark Conner, and Organizer Scott Stackle for their hard work and dedication. We wish them continued success in the future.
Connecticut Machinists Host Speakers,
Workshops The 55 delegates hailed from aerospace and manufacturing locals across the Nutmeg State and listened to presentations by GVPs Lynn D. Tucker, Jr. and Robert Thayer in addition to comments from 1st Congressional District U.S. Representative John Larson, Connecticut AFL-CIO President John Olson, Secretary-Treasurer Lori Pelletier, Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz, State Attorney General Richard Blumenthal and State Comptroller Nancy Wyman. The Connecticut delegation also raised $2,400.00 for MNPL at the conference. “With the diligent work of the Connecticut State Council, we will continue to support candidates who fight for working families,” said Eastern Territory GVP Lynn D. Tucker, Jr., who expressed special thanks to long time Connecticut State Council President and District Lodge 26 Assistant Directing Business Representative James Parent. |