CPKC Update

The Teamsters Canada Rail Conference announced the results of its strike vote this week, with 98 percent of members voting in favor of a strike mandate.

Negotiations have been taking place this week with CPKC for its Train and Engine, and Rail Traffic Controllers

In a statement on the CPKC website they emphasize that they don't want to see a work stoppage and remain focused on reaching a balanced and responsible agreement through the collective bargaining process.

While discussions continue at the bargaining table, grain movement has been strong for this time of the year.

Elizabeth Hucker, CPKC's Assistant Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Bulk, says normally during the shoulder season they'd start to see a decline for demand in rail services for grain as farmers head to the field.

"Over the last month, we've seen strong grain shipments for this time of year.  Actually, in the week that began on April 21st, we moved approximately 525,000 metric tonnes to markets like Vancouver, Thunder Bay, the U.S. and other Eastern Canadian destinations."

She says they've also seen some strong fertilizer shipments into Western Canada to support the seeding efforts.

To hear Glenda-Lee's conversation with CPKC's Assistant Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Bulk Elizabeth Hucker click on the link below.