The Canadian Auto Workers union told its members they are
optimistic strikes can be averted with the Detroit three
automakers after the union decided to focus their talks on
reaching a deal with Ford, but warned a midnight Monday strike
could still happen at any or all three.  The CAW said in a
letter to members that they are upbeat after focusing on Ford
who they say recognizes that the union won't accept a permanent
two-tier wage structure. The union said a possible deal with
Ford would set a framework of an agreement with General Motors
and Chrysler.  The union said Ford emerged as most likely to
reach an agreement ahead of a strike deadline looming Monday
night. Its contracts with all three automakers expire at
midnight.  "We do not yet have a deal with Ford, there are many
details still to be worked out, but our hope is to establish a
framework that we will then take to General Motors and Chrysler.
Even at this late stage, negotiations are fluid and it is still
possible that talks with Ford could fall ap