Decision on impact of rail strike expected by Aug. 9

The Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) will make a decision on the Minister of Labour’s referral about the impact a rail workers’ strike would have on essential services by Aug. 9.

CIRB provided an update on the timing of their decision to CN last week, saying in the event a decision is not made by Aug. 9, it will provide another update.

Minister of Labour Seamus O’Regan Jr. posted on social media May 9 addressing the possibility of a strike, writing, “Today I asked the Canada Industrial Relations Board to look into maintenance of activities agreements between @TeamstersRail, @CNRailway & @CPKCrail. Serious concerns have been raised about potential impacts to the health and safety of Canadians. It’s our duty to look into this.”

On June 29, the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) announced that close to 10,000 workers at CN and CPKC had voted to reauthorize strikes at both companies, if negotiated settlements cannot be reached.

CN said it recognizes that the prolonged negotiations are creating uncertainty, and are working toward providing as much predictability as possible to its employees, customers and partners.

No work stoppage can occur until either party files the required 72-hour notice after the CIRB issues its decision, subject to any extension of the cooling off period that may be ordered by the CIRB.

Since the beginning of the negotiations, CN said its goal has been and continues to be to negotiate in good faith with the TCRC to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that maintains safety and stability for our team, our customers, and North American supply chains.