Union Challenges Labor Board Ruling in Canada

The union representing workers at Canada's major rail companies has filed four court challenges against a ruling by the national labor board that forced them back to work. This decision may weaken future bargaining power for workers. Government officials assert the court challenge will not affect the return to work.

The union representing workers at Canada's two main rail companies has filed four court challenges against a ruling by the national industrial labor board that forced them back to work.

The labor board accepted the federal government's request to order over 9,000 Teamsters members to return to work at Canadian National Railway and Canadian Pacific Kansas City, along with the imposition of binding arbitration.

Labor Minister Steven MacKinnon stated his decision to refer the matter to the board would endure court scrutiny. Government officials noted the court challenge is separate and won't affect the workers' return to their jobs.

(With inputs from agencies.)