Layoffs of nearly 10,000 workers at the two major companies in the sector threaten economic relations with the U.S.
Workers who have been laid off protest in front of railway network
The two main companies in the Canadian railway sector have closed their freight lines. A statement from the sector’s main union, Teamsters, has confirmed that it is preparing to an unprecedented rail strike and could affect economic relations with the United States.
Industry groups had urged Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government to avert a shutdown in the sector, however, the negotiations with the authorities have been unsuccessful. The layoffs of 10,000 workers have put an end to the activity.
According to the Railway Association of Canada, the shuttles that have been held up transport goods for a day with a monetary value of around one million euros. Half of the fuel used at Toronto’s airports arrives by rail. About 32,000 travelers depend on the rail network.
In a statement to certify the start of the stoppages, the company concerned CPKC has expressed that the union representatives, “continue to make unrealistic demands That would fundamentally harm the railroad’s capacity.”
The process of negotiation between the parties involved.
Faced with the possibility of a stoppage on the railway line, the industrial groups drafted a communiqué to. ask the government to intervene. In response, the unions refused, arguing that although bargaining is the responsibility of workers, “the consequences affect all citizens of Canada”.
Without agreement between the social partners, companies valued at close to 100 billion euros have seen their production paralyzed. The governmental authorities are advocating the resolution of conflicts at the dialogue table.
