Canadian Government Swiftly Ends Rail Stoppage

The Canadian government swiftly intervened to halt an unprecedented rail stoppage by requesting a back-to-work order from the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB). Canada’s two major rail companies, Canadian National Railway and Canadian Pacific Kansas City, had locked out over 9,000 workers, leading to significant economic risks. The CIRB will now issue an order after consultations.

The Canadian government moved swiftly on Thursday to end an unprecedented rail stoppage, seeking a back-to-work order from the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB). This comes after Canadian National Railway and Canadian Pacific Kansas City locked out more than 9,000 unionized workers, causing an economic crisis.

Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon confirmed that trains would be operational within days. He also initiated a process of binding arbitration between the Teamsters union and the companies, extending current labor agreements until new ones are established.

Unions were advised to maintain picket lines while consulting legal counsel on next steps. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who initially preferred negotiation, stated the government intervened due to severe supply chain disruptions. Business groups welcomed the swift action.

(With inputs from agencies.)