The Canadian Auto Workers union says it is extending
talks with Chrysler and GM, putting off the threat of a midnight
strike.
   
The union says it will keep talking with the automakers as long
as progress is being made, but adds any time it feels talks have
stalled it will issue 24-hour strike notice.
   
Although the union reached a tentative deal with Ford today, it
was poised to strike at Chrysler and GM at midnight _ when the
existing agreements expire.
   
CAW president Ken Lewenza said earlier today they will ask
Chrysler and GM to accept the Ford deal as a pattern settlement.
   
The CAW had been focusing its energies on Ford over the past few
days, suggesting Ford wasn't dead set against lowering wages for new
hires but allowing them to reach full pay over time.
   
Chrysler responded to the move by saying they were ``very
concerned'' that Ford isn't in the best position to lead
negotiations because it has reduced its footprint in Canada in
recent years.

(The Canadian Press)