CREDIT: The Canadian Press – Global News
Canadian Pacific Railway and the union representing 3,000 conductors, engineers and train and yard workers say they have agreed to final and binding arbitration to end a work stoppage.
In a statement issued early Tuesday morning, Teamsters Canada Rail Conference spokesperson Dave Fulton said while arbitration was not the preferred method, TCRC was able to negotiate terms and conditions that were in the best interest of its members, with wages and pensions still stumbling blocks.
He noted the decision to agree to final and binding arbitration was not taken lightly.
CP President and CEO Keith Creel said in a statement the railway company is pleased to have reached the agreement to enter into binding arbitration, enabling it “to resume our essential services for our customers and the North American supply chain.”
The two sides have been meeting with the help of federal mediators.
CP Rail labour dispute ‘couldn’t come at a worse time,’ O’Regan says
Federal Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan tweeted his thanks to the two sides, posting “I congratulate the parties for staying at the table and coming to a resolution with the help of federal mediators.”
In a later statement, O’Regan said the outcome “is further evidence that when employers and unions work together, we get the best results for Canadians and our economy.
O’Regan had vowed to remain in Calgary until an agreement was reached.