Step 1:
Identifying the Issues.

Members determine the most important issues for our Union contract negotiators through a variety of methods, including:

• A series of contract surveys

• Input from members given to Union Stewards, Plant Chairmen and Business Representatives at shop floor meetings and in daily interaction.

• Business Reps identify problem areas in the contract through their daily enforcement of the current Agreement

• Membership input at Lodge meetings and focus groups, as well as through the website and phone calls to the Union halls.

Step 2:
Committees Meet with GKN.

The Union Bargaining Committee and The GKN Company (as well as the various subcommittees) meet informally throughout the contract to continually work issues -- not just during actual negotiations. As the contract expiration date approaches, the meetings become more frequent.

Step 3:
Formal Contract Negotiations Begin.

In November, the Union Bargaining Committee will present GKN our comprehensive contract proposal addressing membership issues. The Bargaining Committee and Subcommittees will meet on an ongoing basis, following the formal presentation.

Step 4:
Strike Sanction Vote.

This important vote will be held on December 21, 2008. Union members will meet to grant strike sanction support to our negotiators. This show of solidarity gives our negotiators power at the bargaining table.

Step 5:
Stay Informed and Give Input.

Throughout the negotiation process, it is essential that we have two-way communication with the members. Attend Lodge meetings, shop floor meetings, focus groups, and tell Stewards your concerns and issues.

Step 6:
Round-the-Clock Bargaining Sessions Begin.

Both the Bargaining Committee and all Subcommittees meet round-the-clock with GKN  Company negotiators in December to negotiate key contract issues. When a Subcommittee believes there is a resolution to a given issue, it is sent to the main negotiating table for concurrence.

Step 7:
Last and Final Offer Before Your Vote.

After GKN delivers its last and final offer, the Union will print a summary of the proposal, as well as a booklet highlighting all changes. This information will be available at the Union Hall, as soon as we get it printed. We are pushing the Company to again present their last and final offer a few days before the vote so members have more time to review it. We have not reached an agreement on the actual date yet. Information will also be posted on the Union website at www.iam837.org.

Step 8:
Contract Vote.

IAM members vote a two-part ballot. First, members vote to ACCEPT or REJECT the contract proposal submitted by the Company. Second, members vote to reaffirm strike sanction. The IAM Constitution requires 2/3's must reaffirm strike sanction in order to call a strike. Notice of the time and place for the vote will be given when the schedule is set.