CAW negotiations with Detroit stall; Canadians prepare for strike

Ottawa - Negotiations aimed at averting a Canadian autoworkers strike have stalled as Detroit’s automakers instruct their members to prepare for strikes at all three companies next week.

With Canadian currency on a par with the American dollar, Canada has become one of the most expensive places in the world to build a car, according to a Detroit news report. "With the deadline less than a week away, it's critical that all locals are equipped," the CAW union said in a leaflet it began distributing to workers Wednesday. "We're still hopeful that we can avoid a strike by reaching a new agreement with at least one of the companies. Collectively though, we must be ready for any outcome," the statement said. Meanwhile, CAW says local union leaders are focused on strike protocol and creating an explanatory pamphlet to direct rank-and-file Canadian members on picket duties and to explain strike pay and the extension of health care benefits.