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MEDIA RELEASE - Concerns Grow Over Potential Rail Strike: Edmonton Chamber Urges Swift Government Action

August 21, 2024

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MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 21, 2024

Concerns Grow Over Potential Rail Strike: Edmonton Chamber Urges Swift Government Action

EDMONTON, AB  – The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce (ECC) is deeply concerned about a potential imminent labour stoppage by Canada’s two largest railway operators, Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC). Both companies have issued lockout notices to the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC), a union representing over 9,000 workers. A potential work stoppage could begin as early August 22, 2024, if no agreements are reached.

The Government of Canada has previously declined requests for binding arbitration, opting instead to encourage negotiations. ECC calls on the federal government to act decisively to prevent a labor stoppage that would severely impact Alberta’s economy and the livelihoods of countless workers.

A disruption in national freight rail services could result in billions of dollars in economic damage across the country,” said Doug Griffiths, President and CEO of the ECC. “The U.S. has already embargoed massive shipments to Canada via rail which has significant impacts on the transportation of essential goods such as food, coal, and chemicals”.

The disruption may not only affect Canadian businesses but also have severe repercussions on U.S. freight traffic due to the high level of integration between the two economies. Early indications suggest that shipments of hazardous materials, security-sensitive cargoes, and refrigerated containers could be embargoed, exacerbating the potential economic fallout.

ECC has issued a letter of concern regarding the potential work stoppage to Minister Randy Boissonnault, Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, and a joint letter of concern via the Canadian Global Cities Council to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

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About the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce:
The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce (ECC) is Canada’s longest-running and most influential business organization, with our members ranging from small to large businesses across all sectors. For over 135 years, we have supported the growth of our city through ambitious projects, becoming the sought-after voice of business. We advocate for competitive conditions, provide exceptional educational experiences, and connect people and businesses responsibly. Our vision is to build resiliency, promote corporate social responsibility, and encourage inclusive growth through partnership and innovation. To learn more, please visit: https://www.edmontonchamber.com/about/

 

Media Contact:

Akanksha Bhatnagar
Director, Communications and Public Relations
Phone: 780-616-7153
Email: media@edmontonchamber.com

Have your say.

The Edmonton Chamber wants to hear from you. What are the top issues and priorities for your business this spring? Start the conversation by writing to policy@edmontonchamber.com 

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