The CAW kicked off a meeting today in Toronto that it hopes will revitalize the labour movement.

That's if members vote in favour of a proposal to merge with the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada.

The C-A-W opened contract talks with the big U-S automakers last week and after making concessions during the recession, are hoping to share in profits now that the industry has rebounded.

President of Local 1-99 Wayne Gates spoke to CKTB during today's convention lunch break and says the mood is upbeat as the union trys to fight for the labour movement and for communities in general.

Gates says the convention wraps up Friday and then negotiations will continue with G-M on Monday.

A strike vote for Local 1-99 members will be held Sunday August 26th.

Gates is hoping for a 100 percent strike mandate.

GM workers in Oshawa voted in favour of strike yesterday.