Earlier this week, 3,200 CN rail conductors, trainpersons and yard workers went on strike, citing concerns over long hours, fatigue, and dangerous conditions. Canadian industries are now responding with concerns over the potential consequences.
The Chamber of Shipping issued a press release early this morning warning that the CN Rail disruption will have long-term consequences in shipping and across the Canadian supply chain. Now that a new Federal Cabinet is in place, it will be crucial for industries and businesses to continue to advocate to the Government of Canada for action to end the strike promptly. Vancouver and Prince Rupert are strategic ports for the Pacific Gateway and among Canada’s busiest ports serving major Canadian industries. This rail service disruption will add stressors to the operating environment surrounding the ports, as delays caused to cargo shipments and ships will force vessels to anchor in local waters. Prince Rupert is the fastest growing port on the West Coast and highly dependent on CN Rail services. A lengthy disruption will potentially divert ships and cargo to US ports permanently and threaten newly created jobs in the region. The Chamber of Shipping is one of a growing number of stakeholders calling for action by the Government of Canada.
