Canada's two largest railroad operators, Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC), have issued lockout notices to nearly 10,000 Teamsters union workers, potentially bringing the country's freight rail network to a halt this week. The first-ever simultaneous labor stoppage at both firms could severely disrupt the shipment of key exports like food grains, coal, and timber, as well as petroleum products, chemicals, and cars. The economic impact could extend across North America, affecting U.S. rail and shipping hubs.
The dispute centers on issues like forced worker relocations and safety provisions. CN claims it has made multiple offers addressing wages and work conditions, while CPKC insists its offer complies with safety regulations. The federal government has declined to intervene, urging both parties to resolve the conflict through negotiations.
See "Massive looming Canadian rail shutdown could have economic ripple effects throughout America", Reuters, CNN, August 19, 2024