Investing.com -- Unifor began contract negotiations with Ford Motor Companyon Monday on behalf of 5,150 union members at Ford facilities across Canada.

The union selected Ford to establish the pattern agreement for Detroit Three bargaining due to the company's continued commitment to its Canadian operations and a long-established constructive working relationship, according to Unifor National President Lana Payne.

"This will be one of the most consequential rounds of Detroit Three bargaining in decades. Workers are living with the effects of Trump's trade and investment war at work, in their homes and in their communities," Payne said.

Negotiations are taking place at the Sheraton Centre Toronto. The union set a July 10 deadline to reach a tentative agreement with the company.

Unifor is pursuing economic progress for its members, focusing on wages, income security, pensions, benefits, and workplace advancements while also helping to secure stable ground for Canada's auto industry.

The negotiations occur as U.S. tariffs on Canada-made vehicles and parts have created uncertainty for autoworkers and automakers, raising questions about production and investment decisions.

"We cannot sit idly by and hope for the situation to get better. Our job is to get the best possible deal for our members now and hopefully provide some sense of stability for them and their families," said John D'Agnolo, Unifor Chairperson of the Ford Master Bargaining Committee.

Unifor believes a fair pattern agreement at Ford creates the best opportunity to secure deals with General Motors and Stellantis. Dates for subsequent negotiations with these companies have not been set.