CN
CN on May 10 announced a pledge of C$10 million over ten years to support disaster relief initiatives across North America. This funding, the Class I says, “underscores CN’s commitment to assisting communities affected by natural disasters and the impacts of climate change.”
“The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events have dramatically increased over the last decade, impacting communities and placing significant strain on the non-profit organizations that are called to assist communities in the wake of these events,” CN stated in a release.
To help deliver on this $10 million pledge, CN says it will partner with organizations, such as The Red Cross, a humanitarian organization providing relief and support to those in crisis, and Team Rubicon, a veteran-led humanitarian organization built to serve communities facing disasters and crises. This donation, CN says, “will help organizations better prepare for natural disasters and extreme weather events by ensuring they have the resources needed to support the people and communities who need it in times of crisis.”
This $10 million donation will help various disaster relief efforts, including emergency response, community rebuilding and infrastructure rehabilitation. By supporting disaster recovery efforts, CN says it “aims to strengthen the resilience of communities across North America.” Employee donations will be matched by CN.
“Our railroaders have an incredible privilege to travel across North America’s vast landscapes and experience its beauty,” said CN Senior Vice-President and Chief Legal Officer Olivier Chouc. “It also means they have a unique viewpoint on the devastating effects of climate change and the incredible challenges that communities face as a result of extreme weather events such as floods, wildfires and storms. That is why we are so proud to commit this donation to support disaster relief efforts across North America through the Red Cross and Team Rubicon. By working together, we can build resilience and make sure that people have the support, resources, and supplies they need when disaster strikes.”
CN/CPKC
On May 1, TCRC announced that close to 10,000 workers at CN and CPKC have voted to authorize a strike as early as May 22 unless parties can reach an agreement.
Both CN and CPKC are continuing negotiations with the union and provided the following updates.
“CN has been made aware that the Minister of Labor has requested clarity, on May 9, 2024, from the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) on whether or not any services are essential and therefore must be maintained during a labor disruption. As a result of that request, there can be no strike or lockout before the CIRB issues a decision. It is highly unlikely that such determination could be made before May 22,” CN stated in a release.
“However, CN strongly believes that the current uncertainty around a labor disruption must be resolved decidedly and as soon as possible for employees, customers, and Canadians who depend on rail to get them every day essential goods.
“The Company continues to seek a negotiated agreement with the TCRC.”
“The Minister of Labor has referred a question to CIRB to determine if, contrary to the agreement the minister states was reached by the railway and the unions, any rail activity must continue during a strike or lockout to protect the health and safety of Canadians,” CPKC stated in a release.
“This referral means a legal strike or lockout cannot occur until the CIRB renders its decision. The timing for the CIRB decision is unknown.
“Pursuant to the Canada Labor Code, the parties are currently in a mandatory 21-day cooling off period, which would otherwise expire at 23:59 ET on May 21. CPKC and the TCRC leadership are scheduled to meet again next week to continue negotiations with the assistance of federal mediators.
“Our supply chains need stability, now more than ever. CPKC believes these negotiations need to be resolved in a timely manner to provide certainty for the Canadian economy and for North America’s supply chains.”
