Canadian Rail Union Fights Back Against Forced Arbitration

The union representing workers at Canada's major rail companies has filed four court challenges against a recent ruling by the industrial labor board, which mandated them to return to work. The union claims this decision undermines their bargaining power. Federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon defended the decision, emphasizing his authority under Canada's labor code.

The union representing workers at Canada's two main rail companies has filed four court challenges against a decision by the country's industrial labor board. The ruling, which forced them back to work, was issued last week following a request from the government.

The labor board's decision mandates over 9,000 Teamsters members at Canadian National Railway and Canadian Pacific Kansas City to return to their jobs and accept binding arbitration. The union argues this move favors the rail companies and potentially weakens future negotiations.

Federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon defended the decision, citing his broad authority under Canada's labor code. Government officials maintain that the Federal Court challenge will not interfere with the order to return to work.

(With inputs from agencies.)