GVBOT welcomes the federal government’s quick resolution to rail work stoppage

For Immediate Release

VANCOUVER, B.C — The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade welcomes this afternoon’s announcement by Labour Minister Steve Mackinnon that Canadian National Railway (CN), Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC), and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) will enter binding arbitration, bringing an end to the nation-wide railway shutdown. Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, issued the following statement:

“This afternoon’s announcement from the federal government is welcome news. A prolonged work stoppage would have been disastrous for our national economy and our reputation as a trading partner.

“Additionally, it was regular Canadians and small business owners who stood to bear the worst impacts, from loss of income to increased costs of everyday goods.

“This work stoppage had been brewing for months, and millions worth of goods and products had already been diverted from Canada as companies prepared for it. We are also not fully out of the woods as other labour disputes are threatening our west coast ports. Moving forward, we urge the federal government to use this example to establish a framework for future actions for other nationally significant sectors.”

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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 Pacific Canada's leading business association, engaging members to positively impact public policy at all levels of government and 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 businesses in the country, providing a platform for national and international business and thought leaders to further enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.

Media contact:

Federico Cerani
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com