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CPKC disappointed as Teamsters challenge government order to resume rail operations

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) has expressed disappointment after the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) chose to challenge a federal directive to resume railway operations.

Following an order from the Canadian Minister of Labour under the Canada Labour Code, the Canada Industrial Relations Board convened an urgent meeting at 9 p.m. ET on Thursday, Aug. 22, to discuss the resumption of service. However, the TCRC declined to address the matter, instead questioning the constitutionality of the directive.

In a statement, CPKC said this delay hinders its ability to resume service, affecting the Canadian economy. A follow-up meeting is scheduled on Friday, Aug. 23.

Earlier this week, the BC Council of Forest Industries issued a statement urging all parties involved – including employers, unions, and the federal government – to urgently resolve the situation to avoid widespread disruption.

The association highlighted that rail transportation is crucial for moving lumber, pulp, and paper products across North America and to global markets. A strike affecting both CN and CPKC could lead to tens of millions of dollars in weekly losses for the forest products manufacturing sector, risking mill curtailments, job losses, and economic instability in forestry-dependent communities.

Read CPKC’s full statement.