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Canadian Rail Workers Plan Nationwide Strike
May. 9, 2024
Customer Advisory
Canadian Rail Workers Plan Nationwide Strike
May 9, 2024 — Workers at Canada's two largest railways, Canadian National Railway Co. (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd. (CPKC), have voted overwhelmingly in favor of a strike, with 95.3% supporting the action. Their contract expired on December 21, 2023, and the conciliation phase ended on April 30, triggering a 21-day "cooling off" period before potential strike action.
On May 13, the rail lines and unions will begin negotiating in Montreal with assistance from Federal Mediation and Conciliation Services (FMCS). If the parties fail to reach a new agreement, a work stoppage could occur as early as May 22. A 72-hour notice must be given prior to any work stoppage action.
Impact on Freight Operations
The potential strike threatens to halt rail services nationwide, impacting freight and commuter services operated by conductors, locomotive engineers, yard workers, and rail traffic controllers.
Immediate Actions and Advisory
KWE aims to mitigate any disruptions to client supply chains and will continue to monitor the situation as it develops.
Customers with concerns, please contact customer support or your sales representative for further assistance.