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Dec 19, 2008 4:48 pm US/Central
Local Workers Optimistic About GM's Future
Selena Hernandez
ARLINGTON (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
It's the early Christmas present GM employees have waited weeks to receive.
Citing imminent danger to the national economy, President Bush ordered an emergency bailout of the U.S. auto industry Friday, offering $17.4 billion in rescue loans and demanding tough concessions from the deeply troubled carmakers and their workers.
Friday's news of the approved loan was greeted with relief and excitement from GM plant workers in Arlington.
As workers prepare for a four-week shut-down, they're leaving with hope of a better future for their company.
The mood was jovial in the plant Friday. Workers were not only happy about the much anticipated news from Washington, but also because GM hosted its annual toy give-away for Mission Arlington.
Even Congressman Joe Barton was on hand. He held a press conference at the plant, congratulating the workers and commending the president for helping to save the plant from financial demise.
"I would think in the next three months they can prove they'll be viable for the next 90 years," said Congressman Barton.
The controversial bailout plan created worry among workers. Many feared their jobs would be in jeopardy.
The workers say they are aware the loan comes with some strict stipulations that include some major restructuring. Lawmakers want the plan in place by the end of March 2009.
"Tough choices are going to have to be made," said the local UAW Union President Enrique Flores. "I think our membership is ready for it. We're just looking forward to make this work. We have no choice but to make this work."
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