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Canadian National Railway Co. is bracing for a strike. On Feb. 17, the Class I announced a majority of its 5,000 Canadian Auto Workers (CAW)-represented shopcraft, clerical and intermodal yard employees rejected three tentative agreements reached last month.

On Feb. 20, the union plans to launch a labor action against CN unless the parties reach new tentative agreements, CN officials said in a prepared statement. Existing contracts expired Dec. 31, 2003.

"CN regrets the membership's rejection of the Jan. 23 tentative agreements, which were bargained in good faith by CAW and CN negotiators," railroad officials said.

CN has formed contingency plans to maintain service in Canada if a strike occurs.