Unifor says talks progressing but sides ‘far apart’ as Ford strike deadline nears [Video]

The union representing tens of thousands of auto workers in Canada says that talks are progressing between Ford and its bargaining committee but both sides remain far apart.

The contract between Ford and Unifor members will expire at 11:59 p.m. Monday. If no deal is in place, more than 5,000 people will be in a legal strike position.

Those members would join 13,000 autoworkers who went on strike after the United Auto Workers union (UAW) could not reach a deal with the Detroit Three last week.

Unifor officials are expected to provide an update on its negotiations Monday afternoon. 

“As the deadline approaches, Unifor members at Ford Motor Company are advised to be prepared for all scenarios, including strike action,” wrote Unifor’s national president, Lana Payne, in an update to members. 

“All Unifor members are required to report for their regularly scheduled shift unless otherwise directed by union officials.”

The …