Ottawa, Ontario, July 19, 2012—The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada’s Labour Minister, has today appointed Mr. William Kaplan as the arbitrator in the disputes between the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference, representing bargaining units of approximately 220 rail traffic controllers, and 4 200 locomotive engineers, conductors, trainspersons and yardmen.
“The appointment of an arbitrator is a key step in resolving these disputes,” said Minister Raitt. “I urge the parties to work together and extend their full cooperation to Mr. Kaplan.”
On May 28, 2012, the Government tabled Bill C-39, the Restoring Rail Service Act, to end the labour disputes between the parties, consequently protecting the economy from the harmful effects of a drawn-out work stoppage. As part of this legislation, which received Royal Assent on May 31, 2012, Mr. Kaplan has been appointed to resolve the parties’ outstanding issues through an interest-based binding arbitration process. He must render his decision within 90 days of his appointment, unless an extension is provided by Canada’s Labour Minister.
“Our government is focused on jobs, growth and long-term prosperity,” added Minister Raitt. “That is why we took decisive action to protect Canadian businesses and the economy.”
Mr. Kaplan was suggested by both the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference. He is an experienced arbitrator and mediator who has helped numerous parties find resolution to their issues since 1989. Mr. Kaplan also worked for nearly 15 years as an assistant professor and professor at the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Law.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Ashley Kelahear
Media Relations
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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