The Canadian Auto Workers Union and the big three auto makers have returned to the bargaining table at a hotel in downtown Toronto, Tuesday, ahead of the September 17 contract deadline.

“To be honest with you, I’m incredibly frustrated,” CAW President Ken Lewenza said, explaining that he thought by this point all parties would be closer to a deal.

“Probably by the end of next week, if we don’t get a decision by one of the companies to set the framework for a deal, then we will have to select one of the companies to establish the collective agreement this year, so we’re going at it all at the same time,” he added.

Lewenza believes the companies need to give their workers some recognition because of the sacrifices they have made to keep the big three – Chrysler, GM and Ford – afloat.

“Recognizing both General Motors and Ford are making record profits … again we’re talking about modest improvements just to share in the success.”

The negotiations come after a month of gains in the auto industry. Chrysler Canada reports August sales are up nine per cent from one year ago, their highest mark for the month since 2000 and the 33rd straight month of growth.

Still, Lewenza said their workers have voted 99 per cent in favour of strike action if necessary.

In the U.S., Chrysler announced a 14 per cent sales increase last month, with Ram pick up trucks having their best August in five years.

General Motors reports its sales rose 10 per cent as Olympic advertisements helped to draw more customers. Meanwhile, Ford’s sales rose by 13 per cent on strong demand for pick ups and new SUVs, and in Canada, the company held onto first place in auto sales ranking despite a two per cent drop in sales.