Upcoming negotiations concern local CAW president

The CAW is preparing to bargain a new contract for workers at four factories that supply parts to the Chrysler's Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor.

Approximately 600 people work at TRW, Dakota, Oakley and HBPO.

Rick Laporte, the president of the CAW Local 444, is concerned about the upcoming negotiations.

"It should be interesting. The last time we bargained with these four companies we ended up on strike at TRW," Laporte said.

The strike lasted about three weeks.,

"It was a tough battle so I don't think much has changed," Laporte said. "I think it will be an even a tougher battle with these companies today just based on the climate we find ourselves in today."

Later this year, Local 444 will start talks with Integram Seating, which is owned by Magna.

It employs more than 600 workers, and produces seats for the minivans built in Windsor.