Chrysler, Canadian Auto Workers Union Ordered To Return To Negotiating Table

April 21, 2009 10:35 a.m. EST

Windsor, Ontario (AHN) - The federal and provincial governments of Canada have required the Chrysler Canada and the Canadian Auto Workers Union to return to the negotiating table, CAW president Ken Lewenza disclosed.

The order was done through telephone calls from Federal Industry Minister Tony Clement and the provincial government of Ontario.

Chrysler has until April 30 to ink an agreement with the CAW. The carmaker want CAW members to agree to a $19 an hour rate cut, while the CAW insists on a $7 reduction similar to the one it made with General Motors Canada.

Ontario Economic Development Minister Michael Bryant told the media on Monday it is necessary for both sides to renegotiate the rates because of the fast approach of the deadline.

Meanwhile, aside from having to return to the negotiating table, Lewenza also participated on Monday a press conference of the Pension Coalition in which labor unions, community groups and seniors organizations in the country issued a joint call for stronger pension protection.