Jim Vena, CN senior vice-president, CN Southern Region, said: "CN expects the merger will lead to operational efficiencies and service improvements through the integration of distinct work forces in and around the Twin Ports region of Duluth, Minn., and Superior, Wis., where DMIR, DWP, and WC operate today. A unified workforce will allow better management of crew staffing and more efficient and reliable rail service to customers throughout the region, including those in the Mesabi iron ore range, and beyond."
The merger was authorized through a notice of exemption for transactions within a corporate family filed with the U.S. Surface Transportation Board on April 8, 2011, that became effective May 8, 2011. Under labor protective conditions imposed by the STB, implementing agreements with the unions representing the various crafts must be in place prior to closing the transaction. All such agreements are now in place, permitting the company to complete the merger.