BELVIDERE (WREX) -
Chrysler Group LLC announced Friday its UAW-represented
employees would receive the second half of their $3,500 ratification bonus on
December 21st. This payment waives the financial threshold stipulated in the
Collective Bargaining Agreement which would not allow a potential payment until
the first quarter of 2013.
According to the national contract Chrysler Group made with the UAW in October
2011, UAW members were to be given a $3,500 ratification bonus divided equally
in two payments. The first payment of $1,750 was to be paid upon ratification.
The second $1,750 payment was to be given if set financial goals were reached
in the period of four consecutive quarters. Chrysler Group says that it's waiving
the financial goal requirement because of the dedication its hourly workforce
shows.
Sergio Marchionne, Chrysler Group Chairman and CEO wrote in a letter to
employees "This waiver of the four-quarter requirement is made in recognition
of the tremendous contribution you have all made to the performance of our
facilities and to the revival of Chrysler." His letter continued, "You have
made extraordinary efforts to meet our production needs in order to satisfy the
steadily increasing consumer demand for our products. You have also
demonstrated a great level of commitment and cooperation in building a solid
future for our company, bringing the weight of your professional and personal
qualities to the achievement of our goals."
UAW employees eligible for the first
bonus payment, approximately 26,200, will also qualify for the second payment.
The bonus payment will be given in addition to the minimum $500 Quality Bonus to
be paid to U.S.-represented employees on December 7th. Several facilities –
Dundee Engine Plant (Mich.), Toledo Assembly Complex (Ohio) and Portland Parts
Distribution Center (Ore.) – will receive $625 for keeping or reaching set WCM
or quality metrics. $1,000 will be given to the St. Louis Parts Distribution
Center (Mo.).
General Holiefield, UAW Vice President of the Chrysler Department stated "We
appreciate Sergio's and Chrysler's willingness to recognize the contributions
of our members at this time of the year." Holiefield also said, "This additional money in the paychecks of UAW
members is well-earned, but it doesn't just benefit them; they will spend that
money in their communities, providing a well-needed boost to local economies
across the country."
