Media Advisory

The Canadian Auto Workers union has made a historic break with its traditionally uncompromising stance in order to secure a contract with DaimlerChrysler AG, said Norman Solomon, Ph.D., labor relations expert and dean of the Charles F. Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University.

The CAW has now established agreements with both DaimlerChrysler and Ford Motor Co., which it hopes will put General Motors Co. in the hot seat to bargain. But closing the deal with the German carmaker has come at a price, said Dr. Solomon, who co-authored the book, "The System of Industrial Relations in Canada (Fifth Edition)" (Prentice-Hall Canada 1996).

"This is the first time in the 20 years I have followed the CAW that I have seen them publicly say, 'okay we understand there's going to be no growth, how do we protect our current members?'" Dr. Solomon said. "It's a major turning point for a militant union that has never backed down." Indeed, one reason the CAW defected from the United Auto Workers union was because members felt that UAW was too ready to appease the automakers, Dr. Solomon said.

"This has enormous implications for the auto industry in the United States and Canada," said Dr. Solomon, "It is really the first time I can remember the CAW taking a more conciliatory approach. The winds are changing."

Dr. Solomon specializes in negotiation, industrial relations and labor-management relations. He earned a bachelor's degree from Cornell University in industrial and labor relations; and a master's degree and doctorate in industrial relations from the University of Wisconsin. He also holds a certificate in management and leadership in education from Harvard University.

To contact Dr. Solomon, please call the Charles F. Dolan School of Business at (203) 254-4000, ext. 4070.

Posted On: 09-21-2005 10:09 AM

Volume: 38 Number: 44