"The company needs to recognize and realize that we are not taking concessions and we will not be going backwards in this round of bargaining," said Dino Chiodo, president of CAW Local 444 in ...

CAW Local 444 president-elect Dino Chiodo is seen in this May 17, 2012 photo at the Local 444 union hall in Windsor, Ont. (Tyler Brownbridge / The Windsor Star) ...

CAW Local 444 president Dino Chiodo of Windsor, Ont., where the CAW represents thousands of auto workers, parts suppliers and casino workers, supports a merger.

He also said the CAW has addressed women’s issues in the past and doesn’t think abortion is too risky of a topic for the union to touch. “There will be some members who may not favour that position.

CAW Local 444 in happier times: From left, Dave Cassidy, Rick Laporte and Dino Chiodo attend a St. Clair College gala in September 2008. (Jason Kryk / The Windsor Star) ...