A recent decision mandating over 9,000 Canadian rail workers to remain on the job has been characterized as a win for railway companies, according to Paul Boucher, president of the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference. This ruling could influence negotiations in other federally regulated sectors, such as aviation.
Boucher indicated that while the union would comply with the order to return to work, it plans to challenge the decision legally. He expressed concerns that this could lead to the imposition of future contracts, undermining workers’ bargaining power. This situation arises as Air Canada pilots are also pushing for a new contract and may initiate job action by mid-September if no agreement is reached.
“Any federally regulated company, it’s a win for them at this point,” Boucher stated, emphasizing the negative impact on labor rights. The Canada Industrial Relations Board made this ruling after Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon intervened to resolve a deadlock between the Teamsters and major rail companies, Canadian National Railway (CNR) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CP).
The dispute led to a historic lockout of Teamsters workers at both freight rail carriers, causing significant disruptions that threatened Canada’s export-driven economy. Agricultural businesses had urged for immediate relief from the situation.
Tim Perry, president of the Air Line Pilots Association Canada, expressed concerns about the government’s approach to collective bargaining, suggesting a lack of trust in Canadian labor laws.
While CN preferred a negotiated settlement, it acknowledged the government’s intervention and reiterated its commitment to restoring service. The Teamsters have called off a strike against CN but intend to appeal the decision in federal court, with potential support from other unions.
Boucher has been actively communicating with the union representing Air Canada pilots, who recently approved a strike mandate. He called for solidarity among labor groups across Canada to unite in their fight for workers’ rights.