Unifor members employed by Canadian National Railway (CN Rail) will begin strike votes on November 18, the union announced on Friday. The votes, held across Canada, come as negotiations over a new collective agreement remain unresolved.
The union, which represents thousands of CN workers under Unifor Council 4000 and Local 100, said job security, compensation, and working conditions are key sticking points in the talks. Lana Payne, Unifor’s national president, said the vote is intended to prepare members for possible outcomes at the bargaining table.
“These strike votes are a proactive measure, ensuring our members are ready for any potential outcome,” said Payne. “Our priority is to secure a fair agreement, and these votes will reinforce our collective resolve in standing up for respect and dignity at work.”
Contract negotiations resumed in Montreal this week, with Unifor calling for the removal of concessions in the employer’s proposals and a settlement that reflects the contributions of CN workers.
Unifor, which describes itself as the largest private-sector union in Canada, represents approximately 320,000 workers in various industries. The union has stated its commitment to advocating for workers’ rights and achieving what it calls a fair deal for CN employees.
The strike votes are expected to take place at multiple CN workplaces, and the results will help guide the union’s next steps in the negotiations.