TORONTO (AP) — The Canadian Auto Workers union is telling its members they are optimistic strikes can be averted with the Detroit three automakers after the union decided to focus their talks on reaching a deal with Ford that would also set a framework of an agreement with General Motors and Chrysler.
The CAW said Monday in a letter to its members that Ford emerged as most likely to reach an agreement ahead of a strike deadline looming Monday night. A strike at all three automakers would affect about 20,000 workers and 16 percent of North American auto production.
Its contracts with all three automakers expire at midnight Monday. The union is focusing efforts on Ford who they say recognizes that the union won't accept a permanent two-tier wage structure.
