The looming possibility of simultaneous strikes and lockouts in the rail transport industry is forcing truckers to reassess their strategies to ensure the continuous delivery of goods. The union representing Canadian Pacific Kansas City employees recently issued a 72-hour strike notice, effective Thursday at midnight if no agreement is reached. In response, Canadian National has opted to implement a lockout at the same time.
According to the Quebec Trucking Association (ACQ), a crisis management team has been activated under the supervision of its president, Marc Cadieux. Cadieux mentioned that discussions are ongoing with the office of Transport Minister of Quebec Geneviève Guilbault to anticipate necessary measures. The road transport sector’s capacity to meet a surge in demand is currently under review, although the outcome of the negotiations remains uncertain.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) has expressed significant concerns about the situation. A work stoppage in the rail sector could have severe financial repercussions for many business owners, particularly those reliant on rail for receiving their goods. Jasmin Guénette, Vice-President of National Affairs at CFIB, highlighted that never in the country’s recent history have both major rail networks been simultaneously at a nationwide standstill.
The potential impact on the supply chain could be substantial, with over a billion dollars’ worth of goods moving daily via Canada’s railways. Guénette also pointed out that the manufacturing, construction, retail, wholesale, and agriculture sectors are particularly vulnerable. For many small and medium-sized enterprises, there is no viable alternative, and the road network’s ability to absorb such a sudden and massive increase in demand remains limited.
Goods transported by rail, including oil, minerals, and perishable items, are at risk of facing the most significant disruptions. Experts anticipate that this situation could lead to complications in the logistics chain, with a likely increase in transportation costs if the conflict persists.
Read more :
