Canadian labor board green-lights 72-hour strike notice

Canadian labor board green-lights 72-hour strike notice    Canadian National Railway Co. said Tuesday the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) has decided the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC), the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and CN can now avail themselves of the right to strike or lock-out, provided at least 72 hours’ notice is given.
   CN said TCRC represents 1,750 locomotive engineers, and the IBEW 630 signals and communications employees.
   At the same time, CN said it has signed an agreement with the TCRC extending the date on which either party can issue a 72-hour strike or lockout notice to May 12.
   “The union and company are serious about resolving outstanding issues without labor disruption. This additional period will give the parties time to schedule meaningful negotiations aimed at reaching an agreement,” said Gilles Hall', president of the TCRC.