Unifor files a notice of dispute against Canadian National Railway
"While CN is disappointed that Unifor is filing the Notice so early in the process, the Company is committed to reaching negotiated agreements with the Union," the railroad operator said.
Canadian National Railway announced on Friday that labor union Unifor has filed a notice of dispute with the Canadian Minister of Labor, just three days after starting negotiations.
The notice, also known as "conciliation," can be sent by either party during negotiations and usually leads to the appointment of a conciliation officer to help facilitate an agreement.
"While CN is disappointed that Unifor has filed the notice so early in the process, the company remains committed to reaching negotiated agreements with the union," the railroad operator stated.
Unifor explained that it sought conciliation to steer the talks in a more positive direction. The union added that within 24 hours of negotiations, CN issued a notice signaling its intent to lay off at least 65 union members.
"CN Rail came to the table with demands for concessions that would undermine our members' rights and working conditions," said Unifor National President Lana Payne.
Unifor represents 3,600 CN employees, including rail car technicians, heavy-duty mechanics, diesel engine mechanics, crane operators, as well as clerical, administrative, and customer support staff.
