Contract negotiations between Unifor and Ford began Monday, marking the start of negotiations with the three major Canadian automakers.
"This will be one of the most consequential rounds of Detroit Three bargaining in decades. Workers are living with the effects of Trump's trade and investment war at work, in their homes, and in their communities," said Unifor National President Lana Payne.
The negotiations are taking place in Toronto. The union has set a July 10 deadline to reach a tentative agreement with the company.
"We chose to work with Ford to establish the Detroit Three pattern because of the company's continued commitment to its Canadian operations and a long-established constructive working relationship. Unifor believes a fair pattern agreement at Ford creates the best opportunity to secure deals with GM and Stellantis," said Payne.
The union indicated they are looking for "fair economic progress" in wages, income security, pensions, benefits, and creating a stable ground for the auto sector.
"We cannot sit idly by and hope for the situation to get better. Our job is to get the best possible deal for our members now and hopefully provide some sense of stability for them and their families," said John D'Agnolo, Unifor Chairperson of the Ford Master Bargaining Committee.
Negotiations with General Motors and Stellantis will begin after the negotiations with Ford are complete.
