In biblical terms, these would be the End Times for the United Auto Workers union. Indomitable competition has descended like a plague on Detroit auto makers. And General Motors Corp., Ford Motor Co. and Chrysler Group already are weak from tithing what amounts to a labor premium totaling USD8.6 billion annually. Meanwhile, industry observers and insiders suggest the UAW remains unrepentant, giving this year's contract negotiations all the earmarks of an old-fashioned come-to-Jesus meeting. "If either side walks away and you don't get the deal that's going to make these companies competitive, Katie bar the door - it's over," warns Dennis Pawley, management consultant and former chief of labor relations and manufacturing at Chrysler.
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