Canadian Rail Strike Update - Operations Resume

Federal labour board orders rail workers back on the job, imposing binding arbitration

The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) ordered thousands of rail employees back to work to ensure freight trains start running again by 12:01 a.m. on Monday, August 26th.

The CIRB's ruling required rail employees to resume operations, which is expected to help alleviate some of these issues and provide relief to the supply chain, although it will take time for full recovery. Both CN and CPKC have acknowledged that it will take several weeks to restore full service as they gradually ramp up operations.

Canadian Government Steps in to assist with Rail Strike Negotiations

The Canadian government has stepped in to resolve the ongoing labour dispute by ordering binding arbitration and directing the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to assist in settling negotiations. As a result, Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) will resume operations in the coming days. However, there may be temporary delays as they work to clear the backlog of shipments that accumulated during the strike.

To tackle the root of the labour issues, a neutral third party will step in to handle the arbitration and work out new contracts between the railways and the unions. This should help ensure a fair outcome for everyone involved. 

Impact on Canadian economy and transportation sector

Even though the strike will be paused, its effects are still being felt across the Canadian economy and transportation sector. We might see some lingering impacts as businesses and industries get back to normal rail operations.

How can DSV assist you?

We recognize the difficulties this strike and any resulting delays may present and we are dedicated to assisting you during this period.

We continue to monitor the situation closely and will keep you updated with new developments. Our teams are here to help minimize the impact on your business and keep your supply chains flowing!