A worker builds automobiles on a General Motors assembly line at the company's plant in Oshawa, Ont.
On Tuesday and Wednesday, the Canadian Auto Workers union will open contract negotiations with General Motors Canada, Chrysler Canada Inc. and Ford Motor Co. of Canada Ltd. High labour costs and a high Canadian dollar will likely be factors in both side's bargaining. Dan Akerson, chairman of GM, has described Canada as "the most expensive place to build a car in the world right now." CAW president Ken Lewenza has been vocal about the union's "sacrifices" in 2008 and 2009 to help Chrysler and GM meet government bailout requirements.
The Globe and Mail would like to know what advice our readers would give to both sides of this bargaining table as they prepare to meet this week. Please fill out the form below with your suggestions on how the big three North American auto makers and the CAW can work together to avoid a work stoppage. What can they give to the other side and what issues should they stand firm? We'll publish the best answers later in the week.