Alberta business associations warn of costly impacts ahead of looming rail strike
CTV
With both of Canada’s major rail lines threatening a potential lockout, business associations in Alberta are sounding the alarm on the potential impacts.
With both of Canada’s major rail lines threatening a potential lockout, business associations in Alberta are sounding the alarm on the potential impacts.
Wage and scheduling negotiations between CN, CPKC and the union representing 9,300 conductors, engineers and rail yard workers have been going on for months.
The companies have issued a lock-out notice for Aug. 22, following the Canada Industrial Relations Board's recent decision that deemed rail service not "essential" under the Canada Labour Code.
The Calgary Chamber of Commerce says it has deep concern over the decision, adding a rail disruption would extensively affect agriculture, energy, construction and manufacturing industries.
"Trade infrastructure is vital to the health and success of the business community in Calgary and across Alberta and Canada," said Deborah Yedlin, president and CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce.
"So many businesses – from small to large – rely on a stable and predictable supply chain to ensure they receive the inventory they need, or to ship their product to market to keep their businesses moving."
The Business Council of Alberta is also among those calling for action.
