Economy comes to a screeching halt as rail work stoppage begins

For Immediate Release
August 22, 2024

VANCOUVER, B.C. — As of 00:01 ET today, a work stoppage has commenced at Canada’s major railway companies, Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd. (CPKC) and Canadian National Railway Co. (CN), stalling our national economy. Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, has issued the following statement:

“Every day of this stoppage delivers another blow to people’s wallets, endangering the livelihoods of small business owners and employees across the country.”

“Tens of thousands of workers across multiple sectors could see their jobs and incomes affected as plants shut down or products have no place to go. The cost of goods will rise, hitting Canadians already struggling with the effects of inflation.

“Additionally, thousands of workers who rely on the West Coast Express to commute to work every day have been forced to find alternative transportation, worsening congestion across the Greater Vancouver region.

“The federal government has a responsibility to Canadians from coast to coast to intervene and do everything in its power to get rail moving again, including the use of binding arbitration and any other method needed to end the stoppage.”

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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Western Canada's leading business association, engaging our members to inform public policy at all levels of government and empowering them to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events platforms in the country, providing a stage for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.

Media contact:

Federico Cerani
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5454 | media@boardoftrade.com