The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) ruled that CN Rail and CPKC will not be expected to maintain service in the event of a strike or lockout because rail service is not considered "essential" under the Canada Labour Code.

Over 9,000 employees represented by Teamsters Canada at the two railways now have a strike mandate. The CIRB has ordered a 13-day cooling off period for both sides and a strike can't take place now before Aug. 22.

Enhancing the problem, both Canadian railways are now threatening to lock out employees if their separate labour negotiations with Teamsters Canada aren't resolved by 12:01 a.m. on Aug. 22.

Before the rail companies announced their lockout intentions, Teamsters Canada indicated it would provide 72 hours' notice of any strike action.

 

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