Ottawa, Ontario, May 31, 2012—Today, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada’s Labour Minister, announced that the Restoring Rail Service Act has been passed by the Senate. The bill will resolve the labour disputes between the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference and end the strike, which has been ongoing since May 23, 2012.
“With no prospect of resolution in sight, the Government acted to ensure continued rail services for businesses, families and the economy,” said Minister Raitt. “The work stoppage at the Canadian Pacific Railway is affecting industries that contribute $540 million weekly to the Canadian economy through their use of the railway. The strike will also put the jobs of thousands of Canadians at risk if it is prolonged."
Bill C-39 passed the House of Commons on May 30, 2012, and could come into effect after receiving Royal Assent. The legislation will resume rail services at the Canadian Pacific Railway and send all unresolved issues to an interest-based binding arbitration process.
“Canadians gave our government a strong mandate to focus on the economy and that is what we are doing,” said Minister Raitt.
The Teamsters Canada Rail Conference independently represents bargaining units of approximately 220 rail traffic controllers, and 4, 200 locomotive engineers, conductors, trainspersons and yardmen. The collective agreements for both units expired on December 31, 2011.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Ashley Kelahear
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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