CAW Complains About Slow Pace of Contract Talks

The Canadian Auto Workers says it is "a bit frustrated" with the lack of progress in the union's negotiations with U.S. carmakers to replace the national contract that expires on Sept. 17.

The CAW is asking local unions to form strike committees and make other preparations for possible simultaneous walkouts at Chrysler, Ford and General Motors. Members voted last week to authorize a strike. Both actions are routine steps in the bargaining process.

The CAW opened talks with the Detroit Three in mid-August. But Chris Buckley, president of a union local in Oshawa, Ont., tells Reuters the two sides are still "miles apart."

CAW President Ken Lewenza has discussed one sticking point: the union's demand for cost-of-living increases to wages. He says the automakers insist on cutting labor costs.

Lewenza broke with tradition last week by continuing to bargain with all three companies an option he previewed last month instead of picking a lead company. Labor experts note that choosing a strike target puts greater pressure on that carmaker to settle.

Lewenza says if simultaneous negotiating doesn't bring results, the CAW will choose a target by about the middle of next week.