Job security, pensions top issues in GE-union contract talks

[Omaha Steve]

Source: Boston.com

Job security, pensions top issues in GE-union contract talks

By Stephen Singer, AP Business Writer | May 13, 2007

HARTFORD, Conn. --No one is predicting harmony as General Electric Co. prepares to launch contract talks with labor unions that represent 23,000 workers, but the two sides at least agree what the top issues will be.

Job security, rising health care costs and pensions will be among the key issues in contract talks beginning next week with unionized workers and Fairfield-based GE, the sprawling conglomerate that makes aircraft engines, locomotives, medical imaging equipment and other products in the United States and internationally.

GE recorded revenues last year of $164 billion, but has been working to shed slow-growth businesses and further expand into overseas markets to improve its profitability.

GE's negotiations are seen a possible bellwether for manufacturers across the nation, as companies and unions watch to see how the company handles chronic issues of pensions and rising health care costs.

Read more: http://www.boston.com/news/local/connecticut/articles/2007/05/13/job_security_pensions_top_issues_in_ge_union_contract_talks/

[pinto]

1. Thanks for passing this on. I agree with the Globe's take, this will be a bellwether

negotiation, especially in the areas of health care and pensions.

[Manifestor_of_Light]

2. And they even spelled "bellwether" right!! I am impressed!

As a former spelling bee competitor.