Canadian rail workers reauthorize strike action
Teamsters-represented workers at CN and CPKC railways have voted to reauthorize strike action at both companies if a settlement can’t be reached.
Overall, 98.6% voted in favor of strike action with an 89.5% turnout, the Teamsters reported.
Among those voting to strike at the wo railways included conductors, locomotive engineers and yard workers. At CPKC, rail traffic controllers also voted in favor of reauthorizing strike action.
“CN and CPKC are trying to force changes to our collective agreements that would move the clock back on working conditions and rail safety. The Teamsters are trying to stop them. With this renewed strike mandate, we intend to go back to the bargaining table, work with federal mediators, and do everything in our power to reach a fair deal for our members and protect all Canadians,” said Paul Boucher, president, Teamsters Canada Rail Conference.
The strike authorization votes are good for 60 days. Previously, Teamsters workers had authorized strike action on May 1. But on May 19, the feds temporarily suspended workers’ rights to strike, prompting the union to reauthorize strike action.
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