Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) has faced a setback in its efforts to resume operations following a labor dispute with the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC). Despite an order from the Canadian Minister of Labour under section 107 of the Canada Labour Code, service restoration remains stalled.
The Minister’s directive prompted the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to schedule an immediate case management meeting with CPKC. CPKC was prepared to discuss the resumption of services and emphasized its significance to the Canadian economy.
However, the TCRC, representing both the Train and Engine division and the Rail Canada Traffic Controller division, has refused to engage in discussions regarding service restart. Instead, they plan to argue against the constitutionality of the Minister’s order and the CIRB’s authority to issue mandates.
In response to these submissions, the CIRB has scheduled another case management meeting for 10:00 a.m. ET on Friday, August 23. Despite the Minister’s instructions for swift action, any decisions regarding service resumption are now postponed.
CPKC remains ready to recommence operations immediately upon receiving a directive from the CIRB. The company expressed frustration over the postponement, citing its impact on their ability to contribute to the Canadian economy.
