Dear Members,

On August 22, 2024 Canadian National Railway (CN Rail) initiated a lockout against its workers, represented by Teamsters Canada. This action followed stalled negotiations over wages, working conditions, and job security.  

On Augst 23, 2024 - only 17 hours after this began, the Government intervened ordering binding arbitration to end the labour dispute that threatened severe disruptions to both the US and Canadian economies. Here is why this matters:

• Undermines Workers' Rights: The lockout reduces the workers' leverage and ability to strike, which is a critical tool in bargaining. 

• Shifts Power Balance: CN Rail’s preemptive lockout pressures workers to accept less favourable terms. 

• Financial Hardship: The lockout forces workers to lose income, pushing them towards premature settlements. 

• Broader Implications: This action challenges fair labour practices and underscores the need to protect our rights. 

CIRB Decision and Government Intervention 

On August 24, 2024, the CIRB allowed the federal government to impose binding arbitration and end the CN Rail lockout. This intervention was made under the Canada Labour Code, reflecting the government’s prioritization of national interests over ongoing work stoppages. 

Paul Boucher, President of Teamsters Canada Rail Conference, criticized the decision, stating: “This decision by the CIRB sets a dangerous precedent. It signals to Corporate Canada that large companies need only stop their operations for a few hours, inflict short-term economic pain, and the federal government will step in to break a union.” 

CUPE National President Mark Hancock wrote a letter to the Minister of Labour, Steve MacKinnon expressing his concerns with the government’s intervention in this legal process. You can read the full letter by clicking this link. 

Why This Matters to Us 

• Limiting Strike Rights: Government intervention limits the union's primary bargaining tool—the right to strike. While it resolves immediate disruptions, it sets a concerning precedent for future disputes.

• Binding Arbitration: With the unresolved issues now in binding arbitration, a neutral third party will decide the terms of the new contract, removing further negotiations from the workers and the union.

• Impact on Our Union: These events highlight the challenges we face in protecting our rights and the potential for our bargaining power to be compromised.

Looking Ahead 

As a group, it is crucial that we stay informed and understand these developments. The CN Rail situation and the government’s intervention are clear reminders of the need for vigilance in protecting our bargaining rights. 

In aviation news, ALPA - representing Air Canada Pilots are able to strike as early as September 18th. We will monitor these events closely. 

Thank you for your attention to these critical issues. Our unity and awareness are our collective strength. 

In solidarity,

Your CUPE 4070 Executive Team

CUPE 4070 President - Alia Hussain
CUPE 4070 Vice-President - Bryan Hansraj - Interim
CUPE 4070 Secretary-Treasurer - Alex Grigoriev
CUPE 4070 Recording Secretary - Calvin Gautschi

WestJet YVR/ YEG Base VP - Chris Brewer
WestJet YYC Base VP - Lisa Blayney - Interim
WestJet YWG Base VP - Bryan Hansraj - Interim
WestJet YYZ Base VP - Chris Amaddeo - Interim
WestJet Encore YYC Base VP - Heather Crippen