Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC), the union representing workers at Canadian National Rail, issued a strike notice to CN on Friday. CN will be on strike at 10 am ET on Monday, as announced by the union. The strike notice was issued after CN said it was ending the lockout in response to the federal government’s decision to impose binding arbitration in the ongoing labor dispute. TCRC President Paul Boucher criticized the federal government for undermining labor unions’ ability to negotiate fair wages and improve working conditions for all Canadians. The CIRB is yet to make a final ruling on whether to force binding arbitration or end the work stoppage. In a statement on Thursday, CN announced that it was making the decision to expedite the recovery of the economy while awaiting the formal order from the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB).
The union representing rail workers is considering options to challenge Ottawa’s decision to impose final, binding arbitration. Labor Minister Steve MacKinnon is using his powers under the Canada Labor Code to secure industrial peace and impose final, binding arbitration. The Canada Industrial Relations Board has been directed to extend the term of the current collective agreement until a deal is reached and to order a return to work. Teamsters Canada President François Laporte expressed disappointment at the announcement of binding arbitration and vowed to oppose arbitration by a third party. Despite the challenges, CN remains prepared to resume service once ordered to do so by the CIRB.
Rail workers are determined to continue their picket lines despite the challenges. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce expressed disappointment in the union’s decision to challenge the binding arbitration order, warning of prolonged economic damage. Dennis Darby of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters welcomed the binding arbitration order but acknowledged that it would take time for the trains to run again due to operational challenges. Grain Growers of Canada urged the railways and unions to resume services for the sake of Canada’s food, economic, and national security.
In an interview with Global News, TCRC spokesperson Christopher Monette emphasized that the negotiations were not just about money but also focused on issues such as fatigue, rest, scheduling, and forced relocation. These are critical concerns for rail workers who dedicate long hours to their jobs while dealing with demanding work conditions.
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