ASSOCIATED PRESS

ST. CATHARINES, Ontario — A threatened strike by workers who operate the St. Lawrence Seaway's locks has been averted.

The union representing Seaway workers in Ontario and Quebec had been in position to go on strike with 72 hours' notice.

The Canadian Auto Workers union announced Tuesday that the two sides reached three tentative agreements Monday. The union says there will be no labor disruption while member votes are held over the next 10 days.

The Seaway operates 13 locks that lift and lower ships as they travel between parts of the system.

The threat of the strike had shippers concerned that some of their vessels would be stranded over the winter within the Seaway system.