If created, the new union would be the country’s largest private sector union representing about 325,000 workers across 20 sectors, including manufacturing, energy, communications and transport.
CAW and CEP, both affiliates of IndustriALL Global Union, say the project to create the new union comes in response to multiple attacks on the country's labour force. CEP members will vote on the creation of the new union at their convention in 14-17 October.
"This new union has the potential to change the way workers are represented in this country, bringing about stronger democracy in the workplace and greater community involvement," said Ken Lewenza, CAW National President, after the vote.
"Bigger is not necessarily better. But a bigger and better union is better, and that's what we're going to build," said Dave Coles, President of CEP.