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September 1996
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revolutionary new world economy |
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September 1996
Links included were live and functioning at time of publication.
They may not necessarily remain so, and this is not under our control.
Agreement at Chrysler (Monday, 9/30/96)
First Ford, now Chrysler, with GM still ahead. Here are stories from Reuters and the New York Times.
Gingrich still wants to reduce Medicare spending (Monday, 9/30/96)
Republicans will try again to reduce Medicare spending if they retain control of Congress in the November election, says a Reuters story this morning. Also, here are stories about the immigration bill moving on to the Senate today, a strike by French teachers over job cuts, and the upcoming September U.S. employment report and how the Fed may respond, according to economists.
Labour Party conference begins in UK (Monday, 9/30/96)
The opposition Labour Party opened its annual conference with much talk about changing Britain's public pension plan, as well as about how to reduce the trade union block vote, according to The Independent. An election is coming soon, and Labour is ahead in the polls. Labour leader Tony Blair, expected to be the next Prime Minister, is trying to reduce the party's image as the party of the trade unions, according to the London Times this morning. Labour has been financially dependent on the trade unions for a long time, and here's a story with some of the details.
French job creation plan unveiled (Monday, 9/30/96)
A few days ago, French Prime Minister Juppe called on employers to work to produce jobs. Now French Labour and Social Affairs Minister Barrot seems set to announce a plan to help 300,000 low-income citizens find work. The French unemployment rate was at a record 12.6 percent in August, and the French economy has created no new jobs for a year, according to Liberation. Also in France today, pilots and other employees of the struggling Air Liberte airline deny giving up two months' salary as part of a bailout plan, reports Les Echos today.
Austrian workers protest move to Czech Republic (Monday, 9/30/96)
Semperit Reifen, the Austrian tiremaking subsidiary of Germany's Continental AG is trying to move assembly line equipment to the Czech Republic. Austrian workers, concerned about the movement of jobs as well, will vote today on what they intend to do about it. Die Presse has the story this morning.
Swiss Telecom PTT to cut 10 percent of its workforce (Monday, 9/30/96)
The state-owned telecommunications company in Switzerland plans to cut 2,000 jobs in preparation for the opening of the market in that country. Plans call for the cuts to be accomplished through early retirement and attrition, rather than layoffs. Tages-Anzeiger and other Swiss papers are reporting the story today.
Sick pay issue heating up in Germany (Monday, 9/30/96)
Frankfurter Rundschau reports that unions representing civil servants are threatening possible strikes over plans to reduce sick pay to the new legal minimum. Many corporations have already made the cuts. Also in Germany today, the Gesamtmetall industrial employers group wants to include vacation and Christmas pay in the coming negotiations with workers, as reported by Handelsblatt.
Big fuss over physician that can't be fired at HHS (Monday, 9/30/96)
Stephen Barr writes in the Washington Post that a physician who "did virtually nothing" for three years can't be fired, so he's been reassigned.
Debt relief for poor countries (Monday, 9/30/96)
David R. Francis of the Christian Science Monitor comments on the plan to give poor countries relief.
Volunteers help corporation and community (Monday, 9/30/96)
Here are some thoughts about volunteerism from Allan L. Schuman in today's Minneapolis Star Tribune, which also contains Marjorie Kelly's column on the loss of privacy in the workplace, and Paul Offner's piece from the New York Times on how "subsidy" means never having to say "welfare." Here's another Times story about more discoveries in the new welfare law, now that people are beginning to read it.
Another comment on tenure (Monday, 9/30/96)
Another member of the University of Minnesota staff comments on the tenure issue that continues to attract national attention.
New immigrants arrive in the suburbs (Monday, 9/30/96)
Today's New York Times reports on how the suburbs are trying to adjust.
Headhunters get ready (Monday, 9/30/96)
The recruitment industry prepares for a wave of new business, according to the London Times.
Is the American dream really being killed? (Sunday, 9/29/96)
There is, of course, USA Today, the national American newspaper published by Gannett. However, there is also USA Today, the monthly magazine published by the Society for the Advancement of Education. So far as we know, there is no connection between the two. This month, the magazine has a major section asking who killed the American dream. It includes four articles by Charles Whalen, Paul Coverdell, Edward Kennedy, and Robert Reich, respectively. Yes, one is a U.S. Senator, and the other is the current American Secretary of Labor.
Immigration bill passes House of Representatives (Sunday, 9/29/96)
Congress and the President are compromising on a bill that is tough on illegal immigration, but not so hard on legal immigrants as the original. Here are stories from Reuters and the New York Times this morning. The growing gap between rich and poor is stimulating large migrations in many areas of the world, as well as political reactions in many regions. In France, an extreme political party gains influence, according to today's Washington Post. Meantime, here's a story about rich nations looking for ways to help the poor in order to respond to some of the root causes of the problem. Also, G7 expects greater growth in the world economy.
On coping with the competition (Sunday, 9/29/96)
It's a tougher economy than it used to be, but can you still do well? Here's a story from today's Minneapolis Star Tribune. The paper also includes Jerry Morgan's Newsday article about a new law influencing 401(k) contributions, as well as editorials on the rough start of welfare reform and the new poverty and income statistics in the U.S.
A look at Blair (Sunday, 9/29/96)
Tony Blair is head of the UK's opposition Labour Party, and he's been leading it in new directions, including the development of a new relationship with British trade unions. As an election approaches, it is looking increasingly likely that he will be the next Prime Minister. Here's a New York Times story about him. The Times also reports that France is bracing for another autumn of labor conflict, and Peter Kilborn writes about a barter system for the poor.
Quick ratification expected at Ford (Saturday, 9/28/96)
The Ford pact sets a precedent and may influence negotiations with Chrysler and GM. Here's a story from Reuters, which also has stories today about employers putting the money back, a ruling enabling Pabst to cut retirement benefits, and gathering union opposition to a plan to cut sick pay in Germany.
EEOC intervention in Mitsubishi suit (Saturday, 9/28/96)
Kirstin Downey Grimsley writes in today's Washington Post that the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission will join the big harassment suit. The Post also reports details from the latest World Bank study on rural poverty around the world, and the broadening range of opponents to the immigration bill. Also, New York Times columnist Anthony Lewis discusses the harsh impact of the bill on legal immigrants.
Very practical college students hit the campuses (Saturday, 9/28/96)
Today's Minneapolis Star Tribune reports on how job anxieties are driving today's college students. Also, the paper reports on another of the world's economic migrations--the lure of Argentina for impoverished Bolivians. At the moment, though, things are a little rocky in Argentina too. The New York Times reports on how strikes have nearly shut down the country.
On black entrepreneurship in South Africa (Saturday, 9/28/96)
Black entrepreneurs are chipping away at white economic domination in the new South Africa, according to a Minneapolis Star Tribune story today.
Workfare agreement in New York (Saturday, 9/28/96)
Mayor Rudolph Giuliani and the largest municipal employees union have reached agreement on the workfare issue. The union had been demanding that the city stop expanding its program of employing welfare recipients. The Times also reports that Alcoa will cut nearly 3,000 jobs.
China examining pension possibilities (Saturday, 9/28/96)
The Singapore Business Times reports that China is exploring various ways of setting up a pension fund system that will be able to accommodate the huge number of retirees it faces in the next half century. The country has about 120 million people over 65 now, but this number will increase to 400 million in 50 years. The Times also reports that Indonesian President Suharto is asking for rich "volunteers" to help the poor, threatening that they may be forced to help if they do not do so voluntarily.
Internal Labour Party battle over pensions (Saturday, 9/28/96)
The UK's opposition Labour Party meets next week, and, as Tony Blair attempts to take the party in new directions, internal conflicts may gain momentum. Here's a related story from the London Times, as well as story about big pay cuts at British Airways as part of an effort to keep the company's regional operations in the air.
Strikers allege that workers were fired for seeking union (Saturday, 9/28/96)
Today's Boston Globe reports.
Clinton signs health care extension bill (Friday, 9/27/96)
The bill extending hospital stays for new mothers is now law, and also includes greater parity for mental health coverage. Reuters has the story this morning, as well as many other stories relating to work, including news of the general strike in Argentina. Today's Wall Street Journal provides an analysis of Argentine government efforts to undermine unions and reduce worker costs.
Russia on hold, tensions high (Friday, 9/27/96)
Yeltsin's surgery will keep him out of action for about four months, and today's Christian Science Monitor looks at the implications. The New York Times examines the daily struggle of most Russians. The Washington Post reports that Lebed says that the country is near breakdown, and, according to Reuters, the army could mutiny because of non-payment of wages, among other things.
Caterpillar decides not to impose employment terms (Friday, 9/27/96)
Reuters reports that Caterpillar representatives will meet with the United Auto Workers. In other stories, Reebok invites rival to help rid the world of child labor, help wanted ads were down last month, while jobless claims rose last week, and a slowdown of the semiconductor market is resulting in job cuts in a number of companies, according to both Reuters and the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
AFL-CIO campaigning hard in Ohio (Friday, 9/27/96)
The union is working on behalf of Democrats in Ohio, according to Reuters.
Census Bureau says average income up (Friday, 9/27/96)
First increase in real household income for a long time, and the number of poor people has declined in the United States. Here are stories from the Washington Post and the Christian Science Monitor. It's good timing for the Clinton campaign, according to Reuters.
Retirement savings deposits not made, Labor says (Friday, 9/27/96)
Bloomberg and USA Today report that the U.S. Department of Labor says that 170 companies have admitted to not depositing $4.8 million in 401(k) accounts affecting 16,800 workers. The companies participated in the Labor Department's amnesty program that ended on September 7, thus avoiding penalties.
Chemical company wage increases (Friday, 9/27/96)
Tages-Anzeiger reports that Ciba-Geigy AG and Sandoz AG, chemical companies based in Basel, Switzerland, have agreed to increase wages by 1.3 percent next year.
Warning strike over sick pay issue in Germany (Friday, 9/27/96)
Workers at Daimler-Benz AG conducted a two-hour "warning strike" in response to their company's announcing that sick pay would be cut from 100 percent to 80 percent of base pay, in line with changes permitted by new legislation passed this month. The government wants companies and unions to re-negotiate labor contracts and include the cuts to the new legal minimum. Frankfurter Allgemeine has this story today, and also reports that a mediation committee has failed to agree on cuts for civil servants, so sick pay will remain at 100 percent of base pay.
IRS job cuts next year may be averted (Friday, 9/27/96)
According to a Washington Post story today, while Congressional Republicans intend to cut the IRS budget, large layoffs may not be necessary in 1997. The Post also has stories today about a threatened strike by janitors in D.C. offices, Administration objections to the Republican immigration bill and what these may mean for keeping the government operating, and HUD grants to cover transportation of welfare recipients who will work in the suburbs.
University president supports faculty on tenure issue (Friday, 9/27/96)
The battle over tenure continues at the University of Minnesota, and the university's President Hasselmo is supporting the faculty in its conflict with the Board of Regents. Also, here's an opinion piece by Tom Reagan on the issue. Today's Minneapolis Star Tribune also contains an editorial on the high cost of college.
Rebuilding loyalty (Friday, 9/27/96)
Companies and their employees have been through a lot in recent years, with downsizing, restructuring, outsourcing, and other increasingly familiar trends in the new economy. Today's Wall Street Journal reports on companies that are trying to rebuild loyalty. The paper also contains a story today by Gerald Seib on how the anti-immigration backlash has moved into the mainstream.
Workfare workers thinking about unionization (Friday, 9/27/96)
Welfare recipients in New York who must work for their benefits are angry that they lack protections and working conditions available to other workers. The New York Times reports that unionization is on the minds of many. Also, here's a story about candidate Dole's claims that Clinton is distorting the Republican record on Medicare.
China poorer than previously thought (Friday, 9/27/96)
A new World Bank study finds that, despite spectacular economic growth in some parts of the country, China is still a very poor country, and it's poorer than previously estimated. As many as 350 million Chinese live on one US dollar per day, according to the Hong Kong Standard.
Immigration bill passes House (Thursday, 9/26/96)
The provision to deny schooling to children of illegal immigrants has been taken out of the immigration bill and put into a separate measure. Both have passed the House, according to a Reuters report this morning. The President is likely to sign the former and almost surely will veto the latter. In addition, he will sign the new maternity health bill, which also contains an extension of mental health coverage.
Chrysler says it's not concerned about job guarantees (Thursday, 9/26/96)
Reuters reports that Chrysler's President Lutz doesn't think the job guarantees agreed to at Ford would be a problem for his company, under the right conditions. In other auto industry news, a Detroit News analysis says the United Auto Workers may "bend the rules" with General Motors.
Dial soap to clean house (Thursday, 9/26/96)
Jobs will go, and so will some of its brands. Reuters has the story this morning, as well as other stories about Hillary's efforts on behalf of expanded work leave, and a harassment suit against former employees of Michael Jackson.
AT&T to reopen plant, add jobs (Thursday, 9/26/96)
Bloomberg and the Boston Globe report that AT&T will reopen a customer service center and add more than a thousand jobs.
Rail workers in sympathy strike (Thursday, 9/26/96)
La Tribune reports that French railway workers will participate in a planned October 17 strike by civil servants, who are protesting announced job cuts perhaps totaling 4,500 by the end of the year. Also in France, Digital Equipment Corporation will cut 40 percent of its workforce in the country as part of a world-wide job cut plan. Les Echos has this story.
Agreement on how to pay health care debts in Spain (Thursday, 9/26/96)
El Mundo reports that the Spanish government has agreed to use projected budget savings to cover the deficit in Catalonia's health care program. Incidentally, today's Christian Science Monitor reports that many countries are managing to get their budget deficits under control.
More companies in Germany take advantage of new law (Thursday, 9/26/96)
The German Chancellor has asked companies not to take advantage of a new law allowing them to cut sick pay, but Sueddeutsche Zeitung reports this morning that more companies are following Daimler-Benz in doing just that. Also in Germany, Frankfurter Allgemeine reports that Health Minister Horst Seehofer is pushing for a health reform program to be in place by the beginning of 1997.
Inquirer series criticized (Thursday, 9/26/96)
Syndicated columnist John Maggs says the recent series, "America: Who Stole the Dream?" is biased, one-sided. His remarks are available on the St. Paul Pioneer Press web site, but there is a subscription fee. Scroll down, and you'll also find some letters from readers on the same subject.
College costs exceed inflation rate again (Thursday, 9/26/96)
Cost of college is up 5% this year, on average, according to a Washington Post story today, but the Christian Science Monitor reports that campuses are bulging and sleeping room is scarce.
Duke stirs affirmative action controversy (Thursday, 9/26/96)
The Washington Post reports on a David Duke appearance in Los Angeles. Also in California, while the economy has rebounded, there is a growing gap between rich and poor, and the Christian Science Monitor reports on how the state is trying to deal with it.
Major Journal report on world business (Thursday, 9/26/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal contains an important special report on business in the new world economy, as well as on the defeat of a UAW organization move and the growing demand for managers, despite restructuring.
Something more to worry about in Russia (Thursday, 9/26/96)
Boris Yeltsin's health and what it may mean politically dominates front pages throughout the world, but that's only part of the problem in Russia. Another is that large numbers of workers have not been paid for months because of "economic gridlock" in the country. Lebed says the fact that soldiers are among the unpaid could mean trouble. Here's the story from today's New York Times, which also has stories about Mayor Giuliani's claims to be a supporter of immigration, the growing fear and confusion in welfare offices, and the move by Empire Blue Cross and Blue Shield to become a private company.
Japanese union wins damages (Thursday, 9/26/96)
A municipal facility was not made available to a union for a meeting, and they didn't like it. Now, a Japanese court agrees that it was wrong, according to the Japan Times.
Rapid income rise in Michigan (Thursday, 9/26/96)
Michigan once was considered part of the "rust belt" with nothing but hard times ahead, but that's history. The Detroit News reports today that incomes are rising faster there than elsewhere. One reason: the American automobile industry finally started doing things right and is booming. The News also has a story today about a thwarted move to increase the minimum wage in the state.
Health coverage to be extended (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
The Clinton Administration's plan for rebuilding the American health care system from the ground up is a dim memory, but changes continue, a little at a time. The latest will include parity for mental health coverage for those persons who are already covered. However, insurers will not be obligated to provide mental health coverage in the first place. Some states already require that insurance carriers working within their boundaries cover mental health services. Here's the story about the latest bill from Reuters. In related stories, Bloomberg and the Boston Globe report that Massachusetts Blue Cross wants to increase premiums for seniors by 30%. The increase is necessary in order to avoid having to discontinue the program, they say. Also, today's Washington Post reports that there is growing feeling in government and elsewhere that managed care cost-cutting has gone too far is harming patients.
Calls for closing the "poverty gap" at the UN (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
Disaster is seen if widening gap between rich and poor is not closed. Here's a story from the UN's General Assembly as reported by Reuters. Also at the United Nations assembly, a call on the world to combat one of the most malignant features of the new global economy.
Study says cancer patients suffering discrimination on the job (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
Here's the story from Reuters, which also reports on relative income levels in the various states, and John Sweeney's call for AFL-CIO members to campaign for Clinton.
Health care reform advances in Germany (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
German Chancellor Helmut Kohl's coalition has approved some key provisions of the health care reform plan, which is in its third stage of development. Handelsblatt reports the story this morning, as well as that Daimler-Benz AG will reduce sick pay for employees, as a new law permits, despite the Chancellor's urging.
Job cuts in Belgium (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
Agfa-Gevaert is cutting 600 additional jobs at its Mortsel plant in Belgium, as well as 550 jobs at a plant in Germany, according to De Financieel Economische Tijd.
Pension cuts in Italy (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
The Italian Budget and Treasury Minister has announced that pensions will be cut by 2.5 billion lire in order to reduce the nation's budget deficit. Also, the Prodi Government has reached an agreement with companies and labor unions on a plan to fight unemployment by stimulating the Italian economy. Italy's unemployment rate currently stands at 12 percent. La Repubblica and other Italian papers have both stories today.
No approval from employers yet (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
Spain's Cinco Dias reports that the Spanish Confederation of Employers hasn't approved an agreement on pension reform reached by government and labor representatives this week. The government would like new legislation by the beginning of next year. Among other things, the plan would index pension payments to the inflation rate.
Agreement on immigration bill (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
Republicans in Congress agree on immigration bill, this time without the education ban for children of illegal immigrants. Clinton unsure. Here's the story from the Washington Post and the New York Times. Incidentally, food stamp cuts for immigrants have begun under the new welfare law.
House Republicans want to change Civil Service (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
The House has reform packages, but the Senate is reluctant, according to today's Washington Post.
New Mexican crisis expected (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
Howard LaFranchi of the Christian Science Monitor writes that another economic crisis can be expected, despite the Mexican president's assertions.
Lack of plan is both good news and bad news, according to Strib writer (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
Here's more on the ongoing tenure issue at the University of Minnesota from Minneapolis Star Tribune writer Jim Dawson.
Interest rates left unchanged (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
The American Federal Reserve decided again yesterday to leave interest rates alone. The next decision point will come after the American election in November. The New York Times reports the story today, and the Minneapolis Star Tribune editorializes on it.
On jobless benefits in Sweden (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal has stories today about how you don't have to be jobless in Sweden in order to collect jobless benefits, and also about advice offered to small employers by workplace experts.
Big union convention yesterday in Chicago (Wednesday, 9/25/96)
The Chicago Sun-Times reports on the planned merger of two large unions and what it may mean.
World Bank says all have a stake in lifting millions from poverty (Tuesday, 9/24/96)
An adequate food supply and preservation of the environment depends on lifting millions of the world's people in rural areas out of poverty, according to a Reuters story this morning. Also, here are stories about the call for an October 17 strike in France, CAW's decision to target GM next, and Kemp's promises on health care improvements.
Kohl wants wage agreements upheld (Tuesday, 9/24/96)
A new law in Germany would permit industry to cut sick pay, but Chancellor Kohl is asking companies to honor current agreements. Unions have threatened strikes if cuts are put into place. All major German newspapers are reporting the story this morning, including Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.
Nurses want to discontinue local bargaining (Tuesday, 9/24/96)
London's Financial Times reports that nurses' unions in Britain want a substantial national pay increase and an end to local bargaining. Employers say it would take the national Health Service "back to the dinosaur age," so far as bargaining is concerned.
Austrian metal industry employers unhappy, workers happier (Tuesday, 9/24/96)
Salzburger Nachrichten reports that Austrian metal workers have won a 2% pay increase, which is expected to outstrip inflation. Employers are criticizing the agreement, which takes effect on November 1.
Agreement on pension financing in Spain (Tuesday, 9/24/96)
According to El Mundo this morning, government and labor representatives have reached agreement on reforming the pension system through 2001. The new agreement will increase the number of working years on which pensions are based to 13 from eight. Workers who have been employed less than 15 years will have pensions reduced from 60 percent to 50 percent of their salaries.
Plan to control welfare system deficit in France (Tuesday, 9/24/96)
La Tribune Desfosses reports that French Labor and Social Affairs Minister Jacques Barrot has announced social security system cuts of 17.5 billion francs next year.
Republicans drop school ban plan (Tuesday, 9/24/96)
Republicans would not deny school services to the children of illegal immigrants in its immigration bill, according to William Branigin of the Washington Post. The Post also reports today on how the new welfare law is worrying employers in low-wage businesses. Incidentally, the new law began to kick in yesterday.
Pay raise for American military personnel (Tuesday, 9/24/96)
President Clinton signed a bill raising the pay of America's armed forces yesterday. Here's the New York Times story from the Minneapolis Star Tribune, which also has an editorial today on the ongoing controversy over tenure at the University of Minnesota, which is being watched closely throughout the country.
Roberts reports on job prep programs (Tuesday, 9/24/96)
Public television stations around the United States are running a program with journalist Cokie Roberts which looks at six innovative programs for preparing students for the new economy. It's called "Jobs: The Class of 2000." Check your local listings.
Rose interviews Wilson (Tuesday, 9/24/96)
Public television's Charlie Rose interviewed William Julius Wilson last night, author of When Work Disappears. Wilson, a leading sociologist and expert on the social consequences of the economics of inner cities, recently has left the University of Chicago to join Harvard's staff.
Dole says watch out for Clinton health care plan (Monday, 9/23/96)
Republican presidential candidate Robert Dole says that President Clinton will try again to produce a "government takeover" of health care if elected, according to Reuters. Here are Dole's own words from the New York Times. Meanwhile, the Republican-led Congress seems to be the activist on health care issues, according to another Reuters story this morning.
October strike urged in France (Monday, 9/23/96)
Millions of French workers may strike for 24 hours in October, according to Reuters this morning, which also has stories about spreading violence against South African miners, and a ratification of the deal at Chrysler in Canada.
Dutch Prime Minister wants to keep wage-social security link (Monday, 9/23/96)
Newspapers in the Netherlands are reporting that Dutch Prime Minister Wim Kok would like to maintain the linkage between private-sector wages, on the one hand, and social security payments and the state's pension system, on the other, for the foreseeable future. Papers are also reporting that new disability claims were up in the Netherlands during the first half of 1996.
Swiss wage cuts planned (Monday, 9/23/96)
Tages-Anzeiger reports that the largest canton in Switzerland, the one in which Zurich is located, plans to cut public-sector salaries by 3 percent next year as part of an effort to reduce the deficit. The Swiss economy grew only 0.1 percent last year and is not expected to grow at all this year.
SPD wants higher payments for children (Monday, 9/23/96)
The opposition Social Democratic party in Germany wants an increase in support payments for families with children, beginning in 1997, according to today's Frankfurter Allgemeine.
Downsizing at the NRA (Monday, 9/23/96)
The National Rifle Association, an American organization centering on the use of guns, has been experiencing declining enrollment and budget problems. They're cutting back, laying of, and canceling their TV show, according to today's Washington Post. The NRA has been an influential political force in the United States for decades. Also in today's Post, here are stories about outsourcing in the U.S. Postal Service and Washington D. C.-area companies that made the Working Mother list this time.
Recovery in Canada (Monday, 9/23/96)
Canada comes back from the debt brink, according to a Christian Science Monitor story this morning. Also, here are stories about the American Fed's meeting tomorrow and the move by some to divest a teachers' pension fund of its tobacco stocks.
Either him or Dr. Kevorkian, he says (Monday, 9/23/96)
No apologies from a job slasher. Here's his perspective on downsizing and the sick companies that call him in from a Wall Street Journal story in today's Minneapolis Star Tribune. Also, here's a major story on American angst, despite the indicators, as well as Marjorie Kelly's column this time on how children are helping to stamp out child labor.
Shortage of drivers for the long haul (Monday, 9/23/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal reports that there aren't enough truckers, so pay is rising. Shipping costs may follow.
Growing union concern about workfare (Monday, 9/23/96)
Today's New York Times tells about the head of New York's largest municipal union's call for a moratorium on growth in the city's workfare program. It's part of growing concern among unions. Also, Robert Pear of the Times says that most states will be able to cope with the new welfare law.
New report on American income inequality (Monday, 9/23/96)
A new analysis from USA Today finds income inequality increasing throughout American society. Another story finds that optimism depends on your perspective.
U.S. considering IMF contributions (Sunday, 9/22/96)
The International Monetary Fund is planning to increase efforts to help the world's poorest nations. The United States may contribute, but only on a limited basis, given the current climate in Congress.
Inquirer finishes series (Sunday, 9/22/96)
The important 10-part series in the Philadelphia Inquirer, "America: Who Stole the Dream," is complete with today's final chapter. The entire series is available on the paper's web site, and is also running in other newspapers throughout the United States. It will also be available in book form.
Exchange on health issues (Sunday, 9/22/96)
President Clinton praises the Republicans, while Candidate Dole blasts Clinton. All on health care issues.
More on the management study (Sunday, 9/22/96)
Today's Washington Post provides more details on the study indicating that women make better managers than men, at least on many criteria.
Merit raises expected to remain flat (Sunday, 9/22/96)
A study by Buck Consultants concludes that merit raises are likely to remain about what they were last year, according to a Minneapolis Star Tribune story today.
More wanting to start their own businesses (Sunday, 9/22/96)
If you're self-employed, you may feel that the boss almost kills you, but, at least, he has your best interests at heart. Today's New York Times reports on the growing number of persons wanting to be their own boss anyway. Also, in today's Times, here are stories about how the new welfare law is beginning to hit the states, on a new alliance between labor leaders and academics, how proposed tenure changes are fueling the union movement at the University of Minnesota, on paid sabbaticals in some companies, and on the implications of oral promises.
Another Labour shift may produce revolt (Sunday, 9/22/96)
The U.K.'s Labour Party may soon be in power in Britain, and it seems to be changing some of its traditional directions. Today's London Times reports on an expected backlash at the upcoming party conference. The Times also reports that Ford is rushing to meet the work council deadline.
Major report on illegal aliens (Sunday, 9/22/96)
The current edition of U.S. News tells about how illegal aliens get into the United States and the difference it makes.
Bell Atlantic sued (Saturday, 9/21/96)
Today's Washington Post reports on a new discrimination suit. Also, the Post's Stuart Auerbach says pending legislation that would expand health coverage will probably mean higher insurance premiums.
The upside of downsizing (Saturday, 9/21/96)
NBC's Mike Jensen tells about people who have reinvented themselves after being downsized out.
Former Hong Kong hospital to become refugee center (Saturday, 9/21/96)
Unemployed Filipino maids in Hong Kong will be housed in a former military hospital, according to the Hong Kong Standard.
Mental health coverage to be extended (Friday, 9/20/96)
An agreement has been worked out to extend health benefits in several areas, including mental health coverage, although smaller business will be exempted. The new law will also cover "drive-through deliveries" and other issues. Here's the story today from Reuters and the Washington Post.
Workers suffer nerve damage in China (Friday, 9/20/96)
Workers have been poisoned on the job in China. Reuters reports. Also, Reuters reports today on President Clinton's rescinding a controversial welfare waiver affecting the District of Columbia.
Dutch union wants 3 percent wage increase (Friday, 9/20/96)
FNV's industrial union wants a 3 percent wage increase plus a 36-hour work week and additional funds for extra jobs and education, according to Het Algemeen Dagblad in the Netherlands.
Too late on social security reform, commission says (Friday, 9/20/96)
Les Echos reports in France that the country's Audit Commission says the government's efforts to reform the social security system are too late to break even by 1998.
Wall Street wants Social Security privatized (Friday, 9/20/96)
Today's Washington Post reports on the growing movement to privatize the American Social Security system in order to head off disaster. Wall Street joins in. Also, here's a story from the Post on the downsizing of government and its effects, or lack of them.
Strike in Russia over nonpayment of wages (Friday, 9/20/96)
Economic gridlock, which has affected the struggling Russian economy for many months, has resulted in a strike by workers in Russia's Far East. Here's an analysis of the situation from the Christian Science Monitor, which also contains an opinion piece today on the recent report of the National Commission on Teaching and America's Future .
IBM extends benefits to same-sex couples (Friday, 9/20/96)
Here's the story from today's Minneapolis Star Tribune.
How to motivate workers in an annoying business (Friday, 9/20/96)
The Wall Street Journal reports today on motivating workers to make annoying phone calls. The Journal also contains a story today on job hunting in cyberspace.
Background on the New York transit story (Friday, 9/20/96)
Here's more from the New York Times on the agreement that will allow welfare recipients to work in the New York transit system, as well as a story on the Pataki administration's first official response to the welfare changes.
Sick of sick days? (Friday, 9/20/96)
Today's St. Paul Pioneer Press contains a story suggesting that it may be time to reconsider traditional sick days. The paper's on the web, but you'll have to pay a subscription fee to read complete stories, in most cases, although there is a free trial period.
If you're middle-class, you may be disappearing (Friday, 9/20/96)
A story on the "disappearing middle-class" is in USA Today. Check yesterday's edition for an analysis of how labor and social costs are taking their toll on governments and the "economic revolution at the world level" on which we've been reporting for months.
IBM buyout announcement expected today (Thursday, 9/19/96)
When, for the first time in decades, IBM Corporation started laying off employees several years ago, it was taken by many as symbolizing the end of job security in the United States. The company has laid off a great many workers since, but they still prefer to eliminate positions in the least painful ways possible. It's expected that they will formally announce their latest buyout plan today, according to Reuters. Also, Reuters reports this morning that the Ford agreement is going to the UAW membership for ratification, and that a new study indicates women perform better as managers. Here's the USA Today version of that story.
BA to cut 5,000 jobs (Thursday, 9/19/96)
British Airways will cut nearly 10 percent of its workforce as part of a restructuring move. Here's the Reuters story, and here's a story from the London Times indicating that pilots will be targeted.
GM may have to take another look at employment guarantees (Thursday, 9/19/96)
Frank Swoboda, writing in today's Washington Post, says the Ford settlement is sending waves in the direction of General Motors. But, today's Wall Street Journal contains a story suggesting that the UAW is sending messages of flexibility toward GM and Chrysler. The Journal also reports today that Longshoremen on the west coast are expected to reject the new pact and schedule a strike vote.
Job titles losing out (Thursday, 9/19/96)
Employers are getting increasingly practical, so we can expect an increasing emphasis on what people can actually do, rather than on their titles. Job titles are becoming less significant, according to Christian Science Monitor's Mark Trumbull. Can academic degrees be far behind? Actually, there is other evidence that academe's symbols are carrying less weight in the new economy too, at the same time that the number of degree holders proliferates at a furious rate. It's an odd time for minor institutions to begin offering post-graduate degrees, including doctorates, but a flood seems underway, which is sure to reduce the meaning of degrees in general.
Another Republican moderate in conflict with teachers' unions (Thursday, 9/19/96)
Presidential candidate Robert Dole has had some harsh words for teachers' unions during the campaign, and they're returned the favor in kind. Here's a story in the Minneapolis Star Tribune about a similar conflict involving Minnesota's governor. The paper also reports today on some job gains in an international seaport located in the middle of the North American continent.
Agreement on workfare proposal (Thursday, 9/19/96)
The New York transit workers union has agreed to allow welfare recipients to work, so long as it doesn't cost union members their jobs. Here's the story from the New York Times, which also has stories today on new social worker positions in New Jersey aimed at reducing case loads and big job cuts in the Swiss banking industry.
Compensation denied in Japan (Thursday, 9/19/96)
Today's Japan Times reports on a government ruling on labor accident applications.
Political indifference to layoffs charged (Thursday, 9/19/96)
Today's Korea Herald reports on corporate restructuring and political attitudes in South Korea.
Privatization costing jobs in nuclear industry (Thursday, 9/19/96)
As many as 2,000 jobs may go during the next three years as British Energy is privatized, according to the London Times.
California test for teachers upheld (Thursday, 9/19/96)
Here's a San Francisco Chronicle story about a test that minorities say is biased. The Chronicle also reports on concerns about an identification system required by the new welfare law and a discrimination lawsuit against Burlington Coat Factory.
More on precedents set by Ford agreement (Wednesday, 9/18/96)
The United Auto Workers chose to target Ford Motor Company, in part, because they regarded Ford as the more innovative. The new agreement sets precedents and may mean trouble for GM, according to Reuters this morning. The New York Times also reports on the new approach represented in the Ford agreement, as well as a Commerce Department report on how the American auto industry seems to be flourishing after a lot of hard years. Meantime, in Canada, the Canadian Auto Workers and Chrysler Corporation have an agreement. Nearly 13,000 workers will be affected.
Popular new pension package could mean trouble for millions (Wednesday, 9/18/96)
London's Financial Times reports today that millions of workers could have problems early next century because of special vulnerabilities inherent in a popular new pension package involving portable "money purchase" plans. The plans are particularly sensitive to stock price movements and pensioners could end up with only 20 to 30 percent of their final salaries, according to the Association of Consulting Actuaries. Also in Britain today, Chancellor of the Exchequer Kenneth Clarke is freezing public sector pay for the fourth consecutive year. A battle is expected, according to the Daily Telegraph.
Salary restraints to be urged by bank governor (Wednesday, 9/18/96)
According to La Expansion, Bank of Spain Governor Luis Angel Rojo will speak to the congressional Economy Committee and will call for moderate wage increases and structural changes in the Spanish economy. Inflation is coming under control, he says, but is still much higher than in other European countries.
Sick pay reductions recommended by employers' association (Wednesday, 9/18/96)
Today's Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung reports that a German employers association in the construction, metal, and chemical industries are recommending that their member companies reduce sick pay from 100 percent of worker salaries to 80 percent. Unions threaten work stoppages. The paper also reports today that pensions will rise more than 1 percent in 1997 after a rise of less than half that in 1996 .
Conference on immigration bill canceled (Wednesday, 9/18/96)
Today's Washington Post reports that Republicans have canceled the conference on the immigration bill in Congress, as battles continue.
More on the Working Mother 100 (Wednesday, 9/18/96)
Companies are doing better with respect to family-friendly policies, and women are gaining in the workplace, according to Working Mother magazine. Here's a story on their new list of top 100 companies.
Hospital move may cost 400 jobs (Wednesday, 9/18/96)
The American healthcare industry continues to reorganize throughout the country. Here's one example in Minnesota and what it will mean for workers, according to today's Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Health coverage extended to partners of gay employees (Wednesday, 9/18/96)
The City of Denver takes a major step toward establishing precedent, according to today's New York Times. The Times also has stories today about software for finding welfare fraud, and a new-found friendliness among Democrats and Republicans in planning to implement the new welfare law.
Executive pay to be frozen in Korea (Wednesday, 9/18/96)
The Korea Herald reports the story.
Two more chapters in the Inquirer series (Wednesday, 9/18/96)
The Philadelphia Inquirer continues its important series, "America: who stole the dream?" Here's a chapter on lobbying and one on the boom in the training industry. One more chapter to go. The series is also being run in many other newspapers and will be available in book form.
Settlement at Ford (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
Reuters and all other major American news services are reporting that the United Auto Workers and Ford Motor company have reached tentative agreement. The pact will include job guarantees. Today's Detroit News includes a number of related articles on the settlement, including the implications of the job guarantee provision. In the meantime, talks have broken off at Chrysler in Canada.
Merger-related layoffs down (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
According to Challenger, Gray & Christmas, a leading American employment company, mergers are continuing, but layoffs resulting from them have declined dramatically during recent months.
Clinton to propose pension portability (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
With the restructuring of the American economy has come a dramatic increase in the number of people who move from job to job frequently. The new health insurance law makes health coverage somewhat more portable. Now, President Clinton would like to see the same for pensions, Reuters reports. Also, Reuters has a story today about Senator Simpson's concerns with Bob Dole's position on immigration.
IBM to offer buyouts (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
IBM needs to eliminate as many as 5,000 jobs, it says, and is preparing incentives that will make people want to leave their current positions. Here's the story from today's New York Times.
Israeli panel wants to change pension agreement (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
News services in Israel today are reporting that the panel working on structural changes in the country's capital markets wants to change the agreement on pensions reached earlier between the Israeli government and the Histadrut labor federation in order to reduce the investment advantage held by pension funds. Also in Israel today, Histadrut Chairman Amir Peretz wants labor federation executives to take a pay cut, according to Yediot Achronot.
Blair cheers profits (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
Tony Blair, head of Britain's opposition Labour Party, and possibly the next Prime Minister, said in a speech to business leaders that increased living standards will depend on corporate profitability and high productivity levels. The speech is taken by some as an additional indication that the Labour Party is trying to loosen its ties to the trade unions and broaden its appeal, moving in somewhat more conservative directions in the process, according to London's Financial Times. The Democratic Party in the United States, which traditionally has shared some ideological elements with the UK's Labour Party, has also moved to the "right" somewhat in recent years with the election of "new Democrat" Bill Clinton to the American presidency.
Flexible salaries urged for southern Italy (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
Unemployment could be reduced in the Italy's poorer southern regions if salaries were more "flexible," according to Bank of Italy Director General Vincenzo Desario.
Local official orders drug tests for welfare recipients (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
Today's Washington Post reports that this seems to be one of the first actions of its kind taken by a local official.
Spread retirement money around, writer says (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
Guy Halverson in the Christian Science Monitor says that retirement funds shouldn't concentrated too much, and he tells why. However, an article in today's Wall Street Journal says that there are ways that safeguarding your capital but which may sink your retirement portfolio. Today's Journal also has an article by Hal Lancaster on whether you can really afford to follow your spouse to a better job.
Top 100 list to be released (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
Working Mother magazine is releasing its latest list of family-friendly companies today. The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that 3M Corporation is the only Minnesota company to make the list this year.
New thinking required, according to columnist (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
Leonard Inskip, writing in today's Minneapolis Star Tribune, discusses the possibilities of the "school-to-work" movement.
New York teachers union to respond to Dole (Tuesday, 9/17/96)
Presidential candidate Robert Dole has been highly critical of teachers unions. Today's New York Times reports that one union is planning to strike back in a series of ads.
Ford talks resume today (Monday, 9/16/96)
Reuters reports that negotiators are back at it today, and the New York Times says that both sides are optimistic that a settlement is near, despite outstanding issues. Meanwhile, Ford has suspended production at a truck plant because of a shortage of parts, idling workers as a consequence. In other auto industry labor news, a Chrysler offer has been rejected in Canada.
Westinghouse wants to reduce workforce; offers buyouts (Monday, 9/16/96)
Westinghouse is offering 4,600 workers a buyout plan in an effort to reduce its energy systems division workforce because of insufficient product demand.
Welfare changes coming to Florida earlier (Monday, 9/16/96)
Reuters reports on accelerated welfare changes in Florida, as well as on a strike at the Philadelphia Orchestra.
Giant encouraged to step up policies for minorities (Monday, 9/16/96)
David Segal of the Washington Post says a number of organizations are urging Giant foods to improve its policies for hiring and promoting minorities.
Help from clergy (Monday, 9/16/96)
Today's Christian Science Monitor reports on efforts by clergy on behalf of workers' rights.
On painful organizational changes (Monday, 9/16/96)
Kevin Cashman and Janet Feldman, writing in today's Minneapolis Star Tribune, tell how painful changes in work organizations can bring good things. The paper also contains an editorial today about welfare-to-work in one metropolitan Minnesota county.
More chapters in big Inquirer series (Monday, 9/16/96)
The Philadelphia Inquirer continues publication of its 10-part series, "America: Who Stole the Dream?" Chapter 6 tells about the shortcut to American jobs, while Chapter 7 says America can say good-bye to hi-tech jobs. The series is also running in a number of other American newspapers and will be available in book form. The entire series will be available on the paper's web site, but three more chapters remain to be published.
Some small towns can attract new jobs, but not all (Monday, 9/16/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal reports on how some very small towns are attracting firms that will create new jobs, as well as on the difficulties some face.
Will the Internet decentralize work? (Monday, 9/16/96)
Steve Lohr of the New York Times examines some of the implications of the Internet for urban decline. Also, here's are some ways to identify a good job. Don't look at money alone, the Times says.
Outsourcing issues key to settlement at Ford (Saturday, 9/14/96)
Reuters reports that settlement is expected soon at Ford Motor Company. Bloomberg reports that the United Auto Workers union has extended expiration dates at other major American automakers, providing more time for negotiations.
Minnesota tenure changes blocked for now (Saturday, 9/14/96)
University of Minnesota faculty have succeeded in their effort to use Minnesota labor law to halt Board of Regents plans to change tenure at the university. Today's Minneapolis Star Tribune reports on the state government order. Also, here's an opinion piece on jobs for the disabled.
Thousands of jobs looking for workers (Saturday, 9/14/96)
Banc One is having difficulty finding new employees.
Labour denies plan to break with trade unions (Saturday, 9/14/96)
Britain's Financial Times reports that the U.K.'s opposition Labour Party denies that it is planning to ballot its members on cutting links with trade unions if a wave of strikes follows the onset of a future Labour government. Trade unions provide more than half of the Labour Party's financial support.
Bank salaries up in Japan (Saturday, 9/14/96)
Nihon Keizai reports that bank employee incomes have risen in Japan during the past year, even though overall personnel costs have been reduced.
Mitsubishi personnel head resigns (Saturday, 9/14/96)
The director of personnel for Mitsubish's American operations has resigned six months after the big harassment suit was filed, according to today's Washington Post. The Post also has stories today about the new direction taken by labor, and Republican efforts to change the immigration bill.
On the effect of family-friendly strategies (Saturday, 9/14/96)
The September 16 edition of Business Week contains a major cover story on work and family reporting on their survey of companies with family-friendly programs. Effects seem to be positive, they say, not only for the families but also for employers.
Aparteid economy? (Saturday, 9/14/96)
Look in the September-October edition of the Harvard Business Review for a major article on growing income and opportunity disparities in the American economy and whether a rigid class society is developing. Many experts provide their views, including Labor Secretary Robert Reich. Incidentally, rumors are circulating in Washington and New England that Reich may head back to Harvard himself if Clinton wins a second term.
Balancing your life (Saturday, 9/14/96)
Working Mother magazine's September edition offers 10 steps to a more balanced life.
Inquirier series resumes tomorrow (Saturday, 9/14/96)
The Philadelphia Inquirer has published half of its 10-part series, America: Who Stole the Dream?. The series examines the impact of global trade and international competition on U.S. jobs, and resumes tomorrow in the Inquirer. It will also be published in other newspapers around the country. For instance, it starts in the St. Paul Pioneer Press on Sunday. The authors, Donald Barlett and James Steele, are well-known for their previous award-winning book, America: What Went Wrong?.
Merger approved; now come the layoffs (Friday, 9/13/96)
The FTC said okay to the marriage of Time-Warner and Turner, and layoffs are announced without delay. Here's the Reuters story. Bloomberg and the Wall Street Journal say that $100 million in costs and at least a thousand jobs will go.
Deadline approaching on negotiations at Ford (Friday, 9/13/96)
Ford Motor Company representatives are still wrestling with UAW reps, and, while negotiations are said to be going well, agreement isn't quite as close as some had thought, according to Reuters. The Wall Street Journal says that, in exchange for job guarantees, the UAW is being asked to greatly extend the time it will take new workers to reach parity in pay. In related stories today, the New York Times says that the United Auto Workers is trying to hold its ground during a time of great change, and the Chicago Tribune says the stakes are high--not just for a contract.
American employees invest heavily in their employers' stock (Friday, 9/13/96)
Bloomberg reports that Americans are investing 42% of their retirement money in their employers' own stock, and that's too much, says the Wall Street Journal.
No job guarantees from South Korean company (Friday, 9/13/96)
De Telegraaf reports in the Netherlands that South Korea's Samsung will not guarantee long-term employment when it takes over bankrupt jet maker Fokker. The deal isn't set yet, but "agreement in principle" seems close.
Blair ready to break with unions if necessary (Friday, 9/13/96)
Today's London Times reports that U. K. Labour Party leader Tony Blair is preparing plans for breaking his party's link with trade unions if they produce a wave of strikes at the beginning of a Labour government. The unions could hurt the Labour Party in return, and here's a related story from today's Christian Science Monitor. Also, in Britain today, the Daily Telegraph reports that the Rail Maritime and Transport Union is warning that additional strikes affecting the UK's rail network could occur after more conductors join the dispute over productivity payments.
Strike set for September 27 in Italy (Friday, 9/13/96)
Talks have broken down between unions representing more than 1.5 million metalworkers and Italian industrialists. A strike is set for the end of the month. The union wants an increase in wages, according to La Repubblica.
Air France grounded for a day (Friday, 9/13/96)
Les Echos reports that Air France Europe has canceled 30 percent of its flights because of a one-day strike by pilots after the company prevented a pilot from flying his scheduled flight. The pilot had delayed it by asking to have baggage rechecked for security reasons. The pilot has delayed flights 35 times this year for security reasons.
Managers prefer tax cuts to public works spending (Friday, 9/13/96)
Nihon Keizai reports that Japanese managers believe that cutting personal income taxes and deregulation are better ways to re-energize the once mighty Japanese economy than public works spending, according to a recent survey.
Giant suit against Giant (Friday, 9/13/96)
Employees seek $280 Million in racial bias suit, according to the Washington Post.
Teachers poorly prepared, study says (Friday, 9/13/96)
Today's Washington Post reports that a major study finds that American teachers are poorly prepared for their jobs. The Minneapolis Star Tribune and New York Times have related stories. Minnesota teachers scored near the top, according to the Strib, but the Fort Worth Star-Telegram says Texas isn't so happy. It all points out that the "crisis in American education" is not uniform across the country. Some schools are horrible, but some are also excellent. For instance, the small Mahtomedi school district in suburban St. Paul, Minnesota regularly attracts applications from students at prestigious private schools and has an overall reputation for excellence.
Temps in academe (Friday, 9/13/96)
If the overall American economy has been undergoing a "temp-ing," the academic world is not an exception. Here's the story from today's Christian Science Monitor, which also reports on happiness as a moving target.
Discrimination suit at Dayton Hudson (Friday, 9/13/96)
A former executive sues Dayton Hudson Corporation. Here's the story.
Big push for naturalization in new political climate (Friday, 9/13/96)
The New York Times reports that large numbers of immigrants are scrambling to become naturalized now that things are changing in the United States. The Times also reports that candidate Dole's immigration position is splitting Republicans in the American Congress. Also, here are stories on a victory for New York's mayor on the police pay issue, the Administration claim that top-level resignations won't affect welfare changes, and big restructuring to come at Prudential after the company lost the huge AARP contract.
Downsizing means wage freezes in Korea (Friday, 9/13/96)
Today's Korea Herald reports on the consequences of downsizing someplace other than in the United States. But, here's a story today about increasingly lavish consumption in the world's 15th largest economy.
Abortion coverage for federal employees turned back by Senate (Thursday, 9/12/96)
The ban will continue. Here are stories from Reuters and the Washington Post.
Ratification at McDonnell Douglas (Thursday, 9/12/96)
Reuters reports that the International Association of Machinists has approved a new contract. The strike at McDonnell Douglas is over. Reuters also reports today that the Fed finds no evidence of inflation, but may still be nervous, and Secretary Reich believes we, and the Fed, should relax. Here's a related story from the Washington Post, while the Christian Science Monitor reports that the Clinton Administration may be trying to influence the Fed's decision about interest rates while being careful not to give the appearance of trying to influence.
Immigration bill moves ahead in Congress (Thursday, 9/12/96)
The bill to control illegal immigration is marching on its way through the American Congress, with Democratic objections continuing as well.
Officials resign over welfare law (Thursday, 9/12/96)
President Clinton recently signed the welfare reform bill, and not all members of his administration are happy. Here's a story from the Washington Post about two officials who have resigned in protest. The President had expressed his reservations about the changes, but signed the bill into law anyway, apparently feeling that it was necessary during an election year. If the Democrats win back control of Congress, look for efforts by the Administration to fix the new law.
A concierge as a work perk? (Thursday, 9/12/96)
Today's Christian Science Monitor tells about a work benefit you might ask for next time. Today's Monitor also has more today in their series on saving the children, including a story about how families are being ripped apart in Eastern Europe. In addition, here are stories on new definitions of the "American dream" and on the UAW's new tactics. Incidentally, today's Wall Street Journal says that General Motors is offering the UAW lifetime employment in their present negotiations. While you're at it, check the Journal's story today on how young Saudis are being paid to learn work only guest workers have done previously.
Still more on the Minnesota tenure battle (Thursday, 9/12/96)
A group of prestigious professors have come out against the University of Minnesota Board of Regents plan for blowing academic tenure out of the water, according to today's Minneapolis Star Tribune, which also editorializes against the plan this morning. If you've been waiting for a good time to read the late James Reston's recent biography of Galileo, this might be a good time. Today's Strib also has a story today on the higher cost of labor in Europe.
More on Clinton's decision not to appeal court decision (Thursday, 9/12/96)
Here's the story from the New York Times, which also has stories on the New York City Council's overriding the Mayor's veto on a minimum wage issue, the Mayor's decision to sue over a welfare provision, and a new federal study on healthcare and the poor.
Korea receives disability award (Thursday, 9/12/96)
Today's Korea Herald reports that South Korea will be given the FDR International Disability Award. Also, here's a story about the high desertion rates for foreign technical trainees.
Inquirer series focuses on working women today (Thursday, 9/12/96)
Here's Chapter 5 of the important 10-part series running in the Philadelphia Inquirer. Like the recent series in the New York Times, this one's also available in book form.
Major series from major paper (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
The Philadelphia Inquirer is running a 10-part series by Donald Barlett and James Steele called "America: Who Stole the Dream?." Chapter 4 on the new American worker is in today's edition. Here are Chapter 1, Chapter 2, and Chapter 3. For a different view, here's an article from today's Minneapolis Star Tribune telling why some economists think Americans are pretty well off.
Economists gaze into the future (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
The September 9 edition of Barron's contains an article called "What's next?" in which three leading economists give their views about the American economy's ability to continue creating jobs while pleasing investors.
On getting the most out of diversity (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
Check the current edition of the Harvard Business Review for a major article on managing diversity in work organizations.
California governor wants court to reverse its ruling on immigration issue (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
A federal court has struck down much of California's Proposition 187, and Governor Pete Wilson is asking them to reconsider, according to Reuters today. Also about California, here's Daniel Wood's Christian Science Monitor article on the effort to dismantle affirmative action and what it means politically.
General Motors makes offer (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
Reuters reports that GM has made an offer to the United Auto Workers. Today's Wall Street Journal reports that settlement is expected at Ford by week's end.
Increase in the uninsured (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
An American Hospital Association study finds more workers are losing their health insurance coverage. Here are stories from Reuters and the Washington Post.
Labor revises productivity estimates (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
The U.S. Department of Labor says productivity was better than originally thought, but still lagging. There is also concern about the trade deficit. Reuters also reports today that President Clinton has criticized Robert Dole's position on the family leave law.
New insurance contracts with AARP (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
The American Association of Retired Persons has signed a big insurance contract with United Healthcare and Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, according to the Wall Street Journal. AARP has 30 million members and is a major political force in the United States.
Mutual fund for Filipinos overseas (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
The Philippine government is planning to establish a mutual fund to manage the savings of the more than 4 million Philippine citizens who work out of the country.
Unions will ask for minimum wage increase (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
Bloomberg reports that Mexican trade unions are set to ask the Mexican government for a 20 percent increase in that country's minimum wage plus additional tax exemptions.
Fed getting more worried about labor costs (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
John Berry writes in today's Washington Post about the Federal Reserve's concern about rising labor costs and their likely impact on inflation generally. The Post also reports on the narrow defeat of a bill that would have outlawed job discrimination based on sexual preference. A bill preventing same-sex marriages was passed by a wide margin, thus prohibiting some of the financial benefits of marriage relating to Social Security, Veterans benefits, and so on. Incidentally, while Americans have been debating same-sex marriages, same-name marriages are still taboo in Korea, as Sheryl WuDunn reports today in the New York Times.
More on the Minnesota tenure dispute (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
The move by the University of Minnesota Board of Regents to effectively abolish academic tenure is shaking the foundations of academe throughout the United States and is being watched closely. Minnesota faculty member and noted psychologist David Lykken gives his views today in the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Among other things, Lykken is known for largely demonstrating why there really is no such thing as a "lie detector."
Feast or famine (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal reports that more workers are living with fluctuations that may help account for the increasing income gap.
New York governor waiting until after the election to deal with welfare implications (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
Today's New York Times reports that Governor Pataki will call a special session after the November elections. The Times also reports on the growing number of people who are finding work satisfaction in the kitchen.
Clinton pushed employers to help (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
Welfare reform won't work without lots of jobs and lots of hiring, Clinton says. Here's the story from USA Today.
Blair tries to quiet the furor (Wednesday, 9/11/96)
Trade unions are angry with Labour leader and perhaps next PM Tony Blair, reports today's London Times. The Times also reports that the postal union is calling for more strikes in the UK.
Real wages shrink in Hungary (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
Average monthly wages in Hungary increased 19.5% over a year earlier, but this was against a 25.4% increase in consumer prices, meaning that real wages have shrunk by 4.7% on a yearly basis, according to the Hungary Report.
Clinton Administration abandons effort on striker replacements (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
Reuters reports this morning that the American federal government apparently has decided not to pursue its effort to bar the government from contracting with companies that permanently replace striking workers.
Israeli committee considering tax breaks (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
Ha'aretz reports today that an Israeli government committee is considering whether to offer special tax breaks to foreign pension funds that invest in Israel.
UK trade unions unhappy as both major parties compete on strike issue (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
Both Labour and the Conservative party in Britain are trying to find the most effective way to prevent strikes in the UK. The annual meeting of the Trade Union Congress is underway, and there is much concern that trade unions may be losing its traditional ally as Labour shifts its orientation. It's widely expected that Tony Blair will head a Labour government in Britain before too long. Most major news sources in Britain are reporting this story today, including The Independent, The Times, and The Daily Telegraph.
Public sector workforce cuts in Spain (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
La Expansion reports that the Spanish government intends to cut the public sector workforce by between 11,000 and 13,000 workers during 1997. Retirements and voluntary departures will be emphasized, as well as a delays in new hiring.
Italian mechanics to strike at end of month (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
Corriere della Sera reports today that the Italian mechanics union will strike for eight hours on September 27 to protest salaries that are not keeping pace with inflation. Also in Italy, La Repubblica reports that the head of Communist Refoundation, Fausto Bertinotti, has said that he will not accept cuts in pensions and health care as part of the Italian government's effort to cut the deficit. Bertinotti net with Prime Minister Prodi yesterday.
Research group says globalization has not cost jobs in Germany (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
The RWI says that German jobs have not yet been lost as a consequence of German industrial expansion into other countries. The RWI is an economic research organization, and bases its conclusions on a survey of 80 businesses, according to a story in Handelsbatt today. Also in Germany, there appears to be little public interest in hi-tech in an older industrial-age economy that is struggling to modernize, according to today's Christian Science Monitor. One survey respondent thinks that the Internet is used for fishing.
Cost of higher ed still growing at three times inflation rate, but change is in the wind (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
As traditional academic symbols, including the concept of "degree," begin a process or reinterpretation, many colleges are worrying that they may be pricing themselves out of the market. Change comes slow until students stop showing up, but today's Christian Science Monitor reports that some schools are raising tuition less than usual as a sense of reality tries to settle on academe.
A step up may not be a good step (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal contains an article telling about the hazards of accepting the job that's open.
Welfare systems compared (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
Here's a look at how the Japanese and American welfare systems compare. Today's New York Times finds big differences.
On hiring foreign professors in Korea (Tuesday, 9/10/96)
Today's Korea Herald reports on changing government policies giving universities greater discretion.
ASEAN free trade group meets in Jakarta (Monday, 9/9/96)
Representatives of 420 million people in the Southeast Asian economies meet with the intention of keeping the region competitive in the new global economy. Reuters has the story today.
Big severance for Turner execs (Monday, 9/9/96)
Bloomberg and the New York Times report that some top Turner executives may leave with millions following completion of acquisition by Time Warner Inc. Turner's top eight executives may share nearly $30 million. Ted Turner is not included.
British Airways to contract out many operations (Monday, 9/9/96)
The Independent reports today that British Airways expects to cut 10,000 jobs and subcontract most operations except flying the planes in order to cut costs. Also, in the UK, London's Daily Telegraph reports that acrimony seems to be rising between British trade unions and the Labour Party. Party plans for limiting public sector strikes if, as many expect, a Labour government is formed before too long, have been leaked. Trade union response has been vigorous. Here's the story from the London Times as well.
Government pay raises in Israel (Monday, 9/9/96)
Ha'aretz reports that Israeli government ministers' salaries will go up 40.5 percent, beginning in October. Members of Israel's parliament, the Knesset, will also get a raise, but not quite so large.
Taiwan steel company concerned about Australian labor relations (Monday, 9/9/96)
China Steel Corp., Taiwan's largest steel maker, may not go ahead with major iron ore and coal projects in Australia because of concern with the labor climate, particularly the way waterside workers and longshoremen recently supported striking coal miners. The Australian Financial Review has the story today.
Plans to fix American Medicare program (Monday, 9/9/96)
The Congressional Budget Office is working on plans to repair the troubled Medicare program, whoever wins the presidential election in November, according to today's Washington Post.
Wages finally set to increase (Monday, 9/9/96)
A tighter labor market plus the new minimum wage law will make a lot of workers happy, according to the Christian Science Monitor. The Monitor also has a story today by Kurt Shillinger telling why the Dole tax cut proposal isn't cutting Clinton's lead in the polls.
Are the workers the corporation? (Monday, 9/9/96)
Marjorie Kelly has some post-Labor Day thoughts in her Business Ethics column today, which is available through the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Also, here are some qustions to ask about employees.
Lots of work stories in the Journal today (Monday, 9/9/96)
Today's Wall Street Journal has stories today about Detroit's debate on how to take a coffee break, an acceleration of talks between the UAW and Ford, a move to get tough on addiction in the workplace, the benefits of "mental health days" vs. guilt feelings, and the search for better inflation indicators than the jobs report. But, wait! Let's hear the case for inflation from a New York Times article. Also, in the Times today, look for stories about welfare and managed care and about how workfare is cutting costs in New York, but with problems.
Congress slices money for colleges (Monday, 9/9/96)
The Chronicle of Higher Education reports that appropriations to individual colleges are way down. Here's the story from USA Today, which also has a story today on the continuing Senate debate on a bill that would protect gays from job discrimination.
Big job fair at Tokyo Dome (Monday, 9/9/96)
Today's Japan Times reports on the search for jobs by thousands of students in Japan.
Strike leads to death in Karachi (Monday, 9/9/96)
Today's Hong Kong Standard reports on conflict in Pakistan, including a shooting death.
Unionists fear job losses in monetary union (Monday, 9/9/96)
Today's London Times on growing trade union concern about Maastricht. In another story, evidence is presented that small firms favor Labour's plans for a national minimum wage.
Dole doesn't like family leave law, he says (Sunday, 9/8/96)
American presidential candidate Robert Dole has criticized the relatively new family leave law, calling it "anti-business".
A million isn't what it used to be (Sunday, 9/8/96)
Washington Post financial columnist James Glassman discusses retirement issues. Glassman is also host of American public televisions "TechnoPolitics." Today's Post also has stories about unemployment myths and on yesterday's union parade in New York City.
Are sales jobs threatened by the web? (Sunday, 9/8/96)
Other aspects of modern infrastructure-e.g., the telephone and highway systems-transformed nearly every aspect of American life. The Internet seems to be following suit. How about its impact on sales professionals? Here's a story from today's New York Times.
Critique of "honorable retirement" in Korea (Sunday, 9/8/96)
Here's a Korea Herald story on the growing controversy about forced early retirement in South Korea.
Singapore PM urges contributions (Sunday, 9/8/96)
Singapore's Prime Minister would like private sector employees to contribute to Share, according to the Singapore Business Times.
Bill on overtime pay proposed (Saturday, 9/7/96)
Reuters reports this morning that President Clinton is proposing a bill that would allow workers to trade overtime for time off. Also, here are stories about the Senate debate on a bill to protect gays in the workplace, settlement at McDonnell Douglas, weekend meetings in the UAW-Ford negotiations, and lower circulation for Detroit's strike-bound newspapers.
Minnesota faculty attempts to block Regents' tenure changes (Saturday, 9/7/96)
Here's the latest in the University of Minnesota tenure case that could have monumental long-term implications for the organization of higher education in the United States. The Minneapolis Star Tribune has the story, as well as all other Minnesota news services today.
Higher interest rates likely? (Saturday, 9/7/96)
The strong jobs picture in the United States is leading many to expect higher interest rates. Here's one story from Reuters, and here's another. New York Times writer Richard Stevenson tells why the unemployment figures are helpful to Clinton and what they may mean about underlying structural changes in the economy, while the President asks supporters not to take his increased margin in the polls seriously. The Clinton campaign is beginning to worry that too many Clinton supporters might stay home on election day if they feel that he will win anyway, conceivably resulting in his defeat. More realistically, however, it could mean not recapturing one or both houses of Congress.
Report claims use of retirement funds was legal (Saturday, 9/7/96)
A report from the General Accounting Office says that Treasury Secretary Rubin's use of retirement funds during the showdown with Congressional Republicans was legal, according to a Washington Post story today.
China censors web (Saturday, 9/7/96)
As part of its continuing effort to control the flow of information, the Chinese government is trying to block access to hundreds of web sites that it regards as "subversive." We don't yet know if ours is one of them, but we will regard it as a badge of honor if it is. Readers may wonder why, in sifting through international work-related press reports each day, there is so little news from that quarter of the world's population that lives in China. The reason is that to say that China lacks a free press may be one of the stronger understatements of the century. Moreover, the Chinese government does its best to control the operation of the rest of the world's press inside the country as well, and they're pretty good at it. Their efforts to control the flow of information both into and out of the country sometimes appear almost frantic, but perhaps with good reason. Social organization at all levels is determined in large part by who is able to talk to whom about what under what conditions and when. Modern communication technologies are making it harder for authoritarian political structures at the same time that they are causing the dissolution of hierarchical work organizations, and for many of the same reasons. Here's the story about China and the web sites from MSNBC.
MSNBC news from Australia (Saturday, 9/7/96)
Here are stories about the biggest pay increase ever obtained by a union in Australia, as well as about an inquiry into the Australian health insurance industry, and about how an American company has saved jobs in New South Wales.
Many city workers lack valid driver's licenses, or maybe not (Saturday, 9/7/96)
Today's New York Times reports that New York Mayor Giuliani says the Comptroller report isn't accurate. The Times also reports today that President Clinton wants churches to hire people coming off welfare, and that the Brazilian economy is strong, but has problems.
U.S. unemployment lowest in seven years (Friday, 9/6/96)
Last month's unemployment rate in the United States declined to 5.1 percent, the lowest in seven years, according to Reuters and all other major American news services today, and President Clinton, not unexpectedly, calls it "good news". A new Washington Post poll finds that growing optimism and good economic news are keeping Clinton ahead in the campaign polls. Another poll conducted by the New York Times finds that Americans are getting less nervous about the economy, and many are giving the Clinton Administration credit. The Dole campaign continues to search for a hot issue that will stick, while Clinton seems to be preparing for a second term. For instance, here's a story about his setting up a new health care commission. The scandal involving his former campaign strategist doesn't seem to be hurting much, perhaps, in part, because Morris has also advised various Republican campaigns. Meantime, he is going ahead with his $2 million book deal.
New minimum wage could stimulate inflation, Fed says (Friday, 9/6/96)
Officials of the American Federal Reserve are afraid the new minimum wage could boost inflation, making an increase in interest rates necessary, reports Reuters and the New York Times.
Talk about outsourcing (Friday, 9/6/96)
Outsourcing on acquisition of parts is being discussed in the UAW negotiations with American automakers. Here's the story from Reuters. Bloomberg and the New York Times report that agreement is near on the issue.
Thousands arrested in six-week sting operation (Friday, 9/6/96)
Nearly 4,000 illegal immigrant workers have been arrested at nearly 500 businesses, according to Reuters today. Also, here's a story about limitations on the number of foreigners who can hold bank jobs in the U.S.
Major move on academic tenure (Friday, 9/6/96)
Both the Minneapolis Star Tribune and the St. Paul Pioneer Press have front-page stories today on the on-going dispute over academic tenure at the University of Minnesota, which is attracting national attention as a possible precedent-setter. The university's Board of Regents has drafted provisions over objections from both the university's president and its faculty that could effectively eliminate tenure as traditionally understood. Critics have long opposed tenure as guaranteeing "employment for life" to professors, whatever the need for their services or the quality of their performance. Proponents have long insisted that the politically sensitive nature of free inquiry and free expression, defining elements of a university, require that professors be protected from retaliation over the expression of unpopular ideas. The Board's draft includes a provision that could allow for dismissal for "uncooperative attitude."Some feel that this case could be the beginning of the end of academic tenure, as the higher education institution begins a fundamental restructuring for the new millennium. Given all the other changes that are going on at the same time, it could also mark the beginning of the end of many conventional higher educational institutions, as non-traditional mechanisms for the delivery of instructional services develop quickly. One of the fundamental trends across the new economy is a more direct relationship between individuals and markets. There is little reason why professors could not directly provide some instructional service without the mediation of conventional bureaucratic structure, for instance, which, as in other industries, may become increasingly irrelevant and counterproductive. Incidentally, Ralph Reiland writes today in the Christian Science Monitor that colleges have to stop "giving students less for more" which has been increasing the vulnerability of existing institutions, among other things.
German unemployment steady (Friday, 9/6/96)
Frankfurter Rundschau reports that the German unemployment rate held steady at 10.2 percent last month, but the New York Times says that there are other signs of strength in the troubled but once mighty German economy.
Food company creates position to help with minority relations (Friday, 9/6/96)
Giant Food Inc. has been accused of discriminatory policies, but this has nothing to do with their latest appointment, according to them. Here's the story from the Washington Post. The Post also has stories today about job cuts at Campbell Soup and the new parity in white vs. black high school graduation rates in the U.S.
Peace is costing jobs (Friday, 9/6/96)
Today's Christian Science Monitor reports today on job casualties of the peace process in the Middle East. The paper also contains an opinion piece by veteran broadcaster Daniel Schorr on the high cost of reforming welfare, as well as more in the Monitor's important series on the