Saskatchewan farm leaders are hoping to avoid a strike or lock-out at CP Rail this weekend.

CP Rail has issued lockout notice to 3 thousand unionized workers, in a contract dispute over wages and pension, effective Sunday.

SARM president Ray Orb says railways are critical to bring in livestock feed following last year’s drought.

He adds the railways are also important for other goods and services.

Premier Scott Moe wants Ottawa to declare the railways to be declared essential service and avoid any interruption in service.