How To Prepare In the Event of a Possible Strike or Lockout at CN and CPKC in May 2024

The union representing nearly 9,300 workers at Canada’s largest rail operators, CN and CPKC, faces a potential work stoppage due to stalled negotiations over working conditions and wage increases. Teamsters Canada, led by François Laporte, accuses both rail companies of wanting to remove essential safety-critical rest provisions from collective agreements, which are crucial for combating crew fatigue and ensuring public safety. Despite seeking a negotiated settlement, the union finds the companies’ demands unacceptable.

CN and CPKC filed notices of dispute in late February 2024, marking the beginning of a process that could lead to a strike or lockout by early May. The union claims that the railroads prioritize profits over the well-being of supply chains, farmers, or small businesses and are prepared to force a work stoppage to meet their goals.

The dispute involves 6,000 CN workers and 3,200 CPKC workers in Canada, covering conductors, engineers, and yard workers, plus around 80 rail traffic controllers represented by TCRC’s Rail Canada Traffic Controllers division. The current collective bargaining agreements expired on December 31st, 2023.

Despite the onset of strikes or lockouts in Canada as part of the business landscape, many companies are unaware or have not placed enough effort to mitigate these potential risks. As a leading forward-thinking organization, Canaan Group continues to discuss with customers how to begin planning for cargo re-diversion, alternative planning, and cargo risk mitigation. At the TPM 2024, Canaan Group started to consult with several companies to prepare for a strike or lockout with the 2 Class 1 Railway companies.

If you have further questions, please get in touch with Canaan Group sales or email sales@canaangroup.ca.