Joint statement: The federal government must act to avoid a Canada-wide rail stoppage

OTTAWA, AUGUST 21, 2024 – With a full shutdown of Canada’s rail network less than 24 hours away we call on the federal government to take immediate action to ensure the continuation of rail services. The Government of Canada has a responsibility to protect the Canadian public and maintain national security, and it is time to act decisively to fulfill that obligation.  

Under section 107 of the Canada Labour Code, the Minister of Labour can refer the dispute to the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) for binding arbitration and prohibit a strike, lockout or end any ongoing stoppage pending a resolution. Alternatively, the government can also reconvene Parliament and introduce back-to-work legislation.

This is not about siding with either party; it is about standing up for Canadians. The federal government must show leadership and act before our trains – and with them, our economy – grind to a halt. Otherwise, the steep price of inaction will be paid by Canadian families, workers, and businesses.

About the Canadian Chamber of Commerce — The Future of Business Success
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is Canada’s largest and most activated business network — representing over 400 chambers of commerce and boards of trade and more than 200,000 business of all sizes, from all sectors of the economy and from every part of the country — working to create the conditions for our collective success. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is the undisputed champion and catalyst for the future of business success. From working with government on economy-friendly policy to providing services that inform commerce and enable trade, we give each of our members more of what they need to succeed: insight into markets, competitors and trends, influence over the decisions and policies that drive business success and impact on business and economic performance.

Contact
Karl Oczkowski
Senior Director, Corporate Communications and PR
613.238.4000 (2231)
koczkowski@chamber.ca