Strike possible after rail workers’ services deemed not essential

The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) says services done by rail employees are not essential, which has opened the opportunity for strike this month.

On Friday, CIRB ruled a sudden work stoppage would not pose a “significant danger” to public safety.

Shippers and producers, however, have said a pause in job action by workers at Canadian National Railway or Canadian Pacific Kansas City would create disruptions.

According to reports, if new contracts cannot be reached, a Canada-wide strike could happen on Aug. 22.

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