CPKC Negotiations Update
May 22, 2024 - All TCRC Local Chairs – CPKC Eastern and Western Regions – Negotiations Bulletin 10
As you are probably aware, Federal Labour Minister Seamus O'Regan has requested that the Canadian Industrial Relations Board assess whether the strike could pose safety implications. He stated that the request was prompted by concerns from industry groups. The board is set to examine what, if any, critical shipments must continue in the event of a strike or lockout. The Union and Company submissions were submitted on May 21 and rebuttals must be submitted by May 31. It is unclear exactly how long the review could last, which means that the earliest a strike/lockout can commence is at least 72 hours after the CIRB has made their decision.The bargaining committee assembled in Montreal on May 16 to prepare for negotiations with the Company and Federal Mediators from FMCS on May 17. Despite being ready to negotiate over the long weekend, the Company declined to participate unless their original demands were met. The committee found this unacceptable, given the membership's response to the strike mandate and CPKC’s options. During the scheduled negotiations, the committee worked extensively with the Federal Mediators to explain our positions and why the company's demands were unacceptable. The parties parted ways on May 21. FMCS remain prepared to continue mediation, if necessary, though no further negotiation dates are planned.
Ultimately, no progress has been made on the Union's demands this week. The Company clearly indicated its preference for arbitration over negotiation, suggesting it hopes for government intervention to stop collective bargaining.
We remain committed to negotiating a Collective Agreement and will continue to advocate for and defend the members’ best interests. As a union, we have a fundamental obligation to our membership to secure an acceptable contract that reflects the needs and desires of our members. This commitment means we cannot and will not accept terms that undermine the hard-fought rights and benefits our members deserve. The negotiation process is challenging, but our dedication to achieving a fair and equitable agreement is unwavering. Our goal is to ensure that any contract we agree to is one that all members can be proud of, safeguarding their rights and improving their working conditions.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
We remain, In Solidarity,
Dave Fulton
General Chairman - CTY West
Greg Lawrenson
General Chairman - LE West
Wayne Apsey
General Chairman - CTY East
Ed Mogus
General Chairman - LE East
CC:
Paul Boucher - TCRC President
Ryan Finnson - TCRC Vice
President