The Canadian Auto Workers members at CN Rail have voted in favour of a new four-year collective agreement.
The CAW union represents 4,300 workers in various areas, including skilled trades, office and clerical, and mechanical.
The union said the new deal contains wage increases in each year of the agreement, increases to the health care spending account for retirees, a signing bonus and a number of other benefit and work life improvements.
The agreements are retroactive to Jan. 1, 2011.
"The 80 per cent majority approval is a strong endorsement of the work of the bargaining committee, which was able to enhance members' wages, benefits and conditions of work with this new agreement," said CAW local 100 President John Burns. "Securing a commitment from CN on apprenticeships and employee training was also critical in reaching the agreement and its approval," said Burns.
The company said the settlements contain progressive provisions to help CN retain and attract skilled employees critical to its workforce in the years ahead, said the company.
CN has an extensive rail network in northern British Columbia, with Prince George acting as a hub.
