CN Rail, Unifor reach tentative deal ahead of potential strike

A CN locomotive sits idle at the CN Stuart Yard west of the West Harbour GO station in Hamilton, Ont., Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024. (Peter Power/The Canadian Press)

Canadian National Railway confirms it reached a tentative agreement with the union representing nearly 3,300 employees working in “mechanical, clerical, and intermodal functions,” likely preventing potential job action.

In a press release, CN says a tentative four-year collective agreement had been made with Unifor, pending ratification by union members.

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

Terms have not been publicly released ahead of the ratification vote. The current contract expires on Dec. 31.

In a letter issued Monday to its members, Unifor Council 4000 officials said it was “pleased to announce that a tentative agreement had been reached” following “extensive bargaining focused on securing meaningful gains for members.”

“We recognize the challenges faced during this round of negotiations and thank members for their continued solidarity and patience as we worked to achieve a deal that meets your needs,” read the letter. “This agreement marks a significant step forward in securing improved conditions and protections for Unifor members at CN.”

The ratification vote is expected to be held in the coming weeks.

Unifor announced last month that the members of Unifor Council 4000 and Local 100 committees had authorized strike action if an agreement wasn’t reached by the start of 2025.