By Doug Cunningham

At its bargaining convention in Detroit, UAW President Ron Gettlefinger said the union will do what it has to do to fight for its members at the bargaining table this year.

[Gettlefinger]: “We will do what we have to do. Make no mistake about it! Collective bargaining is not collective begging. And where we have demonstrated cooperation, it would be a grave mistake to equate our actions to capitulation."

Gettlefinger called for a national health care plan and he said bargaining at the domestic auto talks is a “two-way street”, not just an opportunity for companies to force concessions. Gettlefinger says despite serious challenges the union heads into talks this year determined to win the best possible contract for its members.