CP Rail laying off 600 workers temporarily

Canadian Pacific Railway has given temporary layoff notices to 600 employees across the country.

The railway company, based in Calgary, blamed the looming economy for being forced to temporarily lay off staff.

Spokesperson Breanne Feigel said the cuts affect train operators, mechanical employees, and track maintenance staff in its workforce of 16,000.

"We are seeing a decrease in volumes as Canada's economy is impacted," Feigel said.

"Some of our customers are looking to hold off, or have no need for commodities or products to move, and as a result that impacts CP as a contributor to the supply chain."

Feigel said none of the employees are facing permanent job loss. And the company expects to start hiring some of them back within a few weeks as the economy picks up.

The railway is also looking at reducing travel expenses and cutting flex days for office staff. There is also a hiring freeze on management positions.