TORONTO—Workers at Chrysler, General Motors and Ford operations in Canada have voted overwhelmingly to go on strike if necessary, according to the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) unio.

Backing up their bargaining committees with a strong mandate, CAW members at Chrysler have voted 99 per cent in favour of strike action if bargaining falters, while workers at General Motors and Ford voted 98 per cent and 97 per cent in favour, respectively.

CAW president Ken Lewenza said he is pleased with the high strike mandate and that its a clear sign of members confidence in the three master bargaining committees.

Our members support their bargaining committees and trust them to negotiate a fair settlement that shares in the success of the companies, Lewenza said in a statement.

The strike vote tallies come as negotiations with the three auto companies resume Aug. 26 and 27 in Toronto.

The last CAW strike was in 1996, against General Motors.

The current contract expires on Sept. 17 at 11:59 p.m.