Canadian National Union issues 72-hour strike notice

A locomotive is parked in a CN rail yard in Hamilton on Aug. 22, 2024. (The Canadian Press/Peter Power)

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers says it has given Canadian National (CN) a 72-hour strike notice.

The union represents some 750 employees in the railway’s Canadian Signals and Communications department.

According to the notice, if no agreement is reached, strike action will begin on Tuesday, Jan. 28.

CN says it is aware of the situation and intends to implement its contingency plan. The company says it wants to maintain the supply chain as a priority.

The union claims to have received a strike mandate from 95 per cent of its members. They are calling for higher wages and a better work-life balance.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Jan. 25, 2025.