Canadian National Railway receives arbitrator’s decision for new agreement

Canadian National Railway said on Monday it had received an arbitrator’s decision regarding the terms of its new collective agreement with the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC), which represents about 6,000 rail workers.

The new agreement replaces the previous three-year deal, that was effective through December 31, 2026, CN Rail said, adding that the new agreement does not require ratification from the union’s members.

The rail company had faced a threat of work stoppage last year by rail unions until the Canadian government called for a binding arbitration to reach an agreement over a new contract.

Monday’s announcement follows a recent wave of agreements and ratifications across sectors, as unions push for better working conditions and pay.

“The arbitrator’s decision underscores the importance of a full industrial review of labor relations in Canada’s rail sector,” said Paul Boucher, TCRC president.

Last year, Unifor, which represents more than 3,000 rail workers, ratified a new four-year collective agreement with CN Rail, averting a potential strike action.

—Reporting by Anshuman Tripathy in Bengaluru

---

You’ll also receive industry insight on why it matters delivered right to your inbox, 6 days a week!