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Yesterday, Canadian National Railway Co. announced the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) is determining whether rail services should be maintained in Canada in the event of a strike or lockout involving the Class I and three rail labor unions.

CN officials are trying to negotiate agreements with representatives from the United Transportation Union, which represents 2,520 brakemen and conductors; Teamsters Canada Rail Conference, which represents 1,750 locomotive engineers; and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, which represents 630 electricians.

"The company remains optimistic settlements can be reached without [any] labor disruption," CN officials said in a prepared statement

The right to initiate a strike or lockout is suspended until the CIRB renders a decision. After a determination is made, the board will require at least 72 hours' notice prior to the start of a strike or lockout, CN said.