The western Canadian province of Alberta has called on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to take immediate action to prevent potentially devastating strikes by railway and port workers that could cripple the country’s economy and supply chains.
In a letter released by her office, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith urged Trudeau to do everything in his power to help the parties in both disputes reach negotiated settlements. Smith, a political opponent of Trudeau, warned that any work stoppage affecting Canada’s railways and ports would be “crippling” for the national economy and North American supply chains.
The Teamsters union, which represents railway workers, has voted overwhelmingly to strike as early as May 22. Separately, talks between management and unions at the port of Vancouver have hit an impasse, raising the prospect of a work stoppage at Canada’s largest port.
Smith called on Trudeau’s government to be “prepared to use all the tools at its disposal to terminate” any work stoppage, including the possibility of back-to-work legislation if necessary. However, the ruling Liberal government has historically shown little interest in imposing such measures.
The federal Labour Minister, Seamus O’Regan, has asked the Canada Industrial Relations Board to examine whether a potential rail strike could have safety implications. Until the board has issued a decision, the strike by workers at Canadian National Railway and Canadian Pacific Kansas City cannot commence. The board has requested submissions by the end of business on May 21, but a final decision could take weeks.
The unions are currently negotiating new contracts and are seeking better wages and working conditions for their members. The potential strikes come at a critical time for Canada’s economy, which relies heavily on the efficient operation of its railways and ports for the export of key commodities like grain, potash, and coal.