(September 19, 2012) OAKVILLE, Ont., — Ford Motor Company of Canada and the Canadian Auto Workers union (CAW) have reached a tentative agreement on a four-year national labour contract covering approximately 4,500 Ford unionized employees in Canada.

The agreement is subject to ratification by Ford CAW members. To respect the ratification process, Ford of Canada will not discuss the specifics of the tentative agreement until it is approved. "We believe that the tentative agreement offers unique-to-Canada solutions that will improve the competitiveness of the Canadian operations while providing employees the opportunity to earn a good living, said Stacey Allerton, vice president, human resources, Ford Motor Company of Canada.

"Ford of Canada recognizes and respects the significant contributions made by our employees every day — contributions which help us deliver high quality vehicles that people want and value.

"I’d like to take this opportunity to thank CAW president Ken Lewenza and the entire CAW national bargaining committee for all of their hard work and professionalism during negotiations.  I would also like to thank the Ford of Canada bargaining team for its skill and dedication during this complex and challenging set of talks. Without the unrelenting commitment of all parties, this innovative agreement could not have been reached."