Human Resources and Skills Development Canada: Statement by the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Labour

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Nov. 28, 2009) - I am disappointed to hear that Canadian National Railways Limited (CN) and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference have been unable to reach an agreement in their labour dispute.

Our Government is monitoring the situation closely, and we urge the union to accept binding arbitration-which CN has already accepted-to resolve all issues in dispute. I am ready to appoint an arbitrator immediately upon receipt of the union's concurrence.

I am committed to protecting Canadians and the Canadian economy and will make every effort to shield them from the damaging effects of a strike.

At a time when our economy is still recovering, our Government will not support a disruption to such a vital component of Canada's economy.