CN Railway, union are getting closer to a labor contract – IBEW

HOUSTON (ICIS)–Canadian National Railway (CN) and a union representing signal and communication workers are still in talks, and they are getting closer to reaching a deal, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) said on Monday.

The union members total 750. The union has issued a strike notice, allowing them to walk out as early as Tuesday.

“The company and the union are getting closer to reaching a deal, and we are optimistic that a deal can be reached and strike action avoided,” according to a statement by Jason Sommer, senior general chair, IBEW System Council No 11. “We are currently still at the table with the company, and with the assistance of federal mediators, we are striving to reach a fair and equitable deal for our members.”

Outstanding issues are wages, reimbursement for travel and striking a better work-life balance for union members, Sommer said.

If the union does call a strike, CN expects no disruptions.

“There will be no impact on our operations as a result of a work stoppage,” the railroad said in a statement. “CN’s contingency plans are in place, operations will continue, and our dedicated teams are prepared to ensure the seamless continuity of service.”

The two sides have been negotiating a labor contract since September. That agreement ended on 31 December 2024.

Canadian chemical producers rely on rail to ship more than 70% of their products, with some exclusively using rail.