CP Rail and TCRC enter into binding arbitration

Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is pleased that Canadian Pacific Railway (CP Rail) and Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC – Train and Engine Negotiating Committee agreed to enter into binding arbitration.

“We are relieved that both parties have decided to enter arbitration,” said Dr. Melanie Wowk, Chair, ABP. “The beef industry is thankful to Premier Jason Kenney and Minister Nate Horner for stepping up and advocating on behalf of the industry. The work stoppage could have resulted in severe impacts, and we are grateful it came to a resolution.”

The agreement enabled CP Rail to return to work effective noon, March 22.

“CP is pleased to have reached agreement with the TCRC Negotiating Committee to enter into binding arbitration and end this work stoppage,” said CP President and CEO Keith Creel.

“The decision to agree to final and binding arbitration is not taken lightly,”  said Dave Fulton, TCRC spokesperson. “While arbitration is not the preferred method, we were able to negotiate terms and conditions that were in the best interest of our members.”

In binding arbitration, involved parties meet with a mediator or arbitrator for discussion, and accept the arbitrator’s decision as final.

Despite the agreement, TCRC says wages and pensions remain stumbling blocks.