The Canadian Pacific Railway (CPKC) has responded to the threat of a strike by rail workers with a lockout notice, escalating tensions between the company and its employees.
The strike threat was issued by the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) on Monday, citing concerns over long working hours and fatigue among workers. The TCRC represents approximately 3,000 conductors, trainmen, and yardmen at CPKC.
In response, CPKC has issued a 72-hour lockout notice, which would effectively shut down the railway operations if the strike were to occur. The company stated that the lockout notice is a necessary measure to ensure the safety and reliability of its operations.
In a statement, CPKC’s President and CEO, Keith Creel, expressed disappointment in the TCRC’s decision to issue a strike threat. He emphasized that the company has been negotiating in good faith and has offered a fair and competitive contract to its employees.
Creel also addressed the concerns raised by the TCRC, stating that CPKC has implemented measures to address fatigue and ensure the well-being of its employees. He added that the company is committed to finding a resolution that is beneficial for both parties.
The TCRC has yet to respond to the lockout notice, but the union has previously stated that it is willing to continue negotiations with CPKC. The two sides have been in talks since November 2020, but have been unable to reach an agreement.
The potential strike and lockout would have a significant impact on the transportation of goods across Canada, as CPKC is one of the country’s largest rail operators. The company transports a wide range of commodities, including grain, coal, and consumer goods.
The federal government has been closely monitoring the situation and has urged both parties to continue negotiations in good faith. In a statement, the Minister of Labour, Filomena Tassi, stated that the government is ready to intervene if necessary to prevent a disruption in the country’s supply chain.
As the deadline for the lockout notice approaches, the fate of CPKC’s operations and its employees remains uncertain. Both sides must continue to work towards a resolution that addresses the concerns of the workers while ensuring the smooth functioning of the railway.
