CAW Opens Negotiations with CN Rail

MONTREAL, Sept. 9 /CNW/ - The Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) union officially opened collective bargaining negotiations with CN Rail this morning. The union represents 4,300 members at CN Rail across Canada, including shopcraft workers (CAW Local 100) as well as clerical and intermodal workers (CAW National Council 4000).  

CAW President Ken Lewenza said the union negotiating team raised a number of significant issues with the company during the opening round of deliberations, including wages, pensions, benefits, job security and working conditions.

"Every agreement we bargain today is challenging, especially in the context of difficult economic times," Lewenza said. "However, we are well aware that this corporation has seen major gains in its bottom line and productivity over the years and that's a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our members. Our aim is to bargain a deal that recognizes our members' contribution to the company's success." 

CAW Local 100 President John Burns said the union bargaining committee looks forward to working with CN Rail to negotiate a new collective agreement that is positive for both sides.

"We are confident that we can get over the hurdles that lay ahead of us," Burns said. 

CAW National Council 4000 President Barry Kennedy said the union is committed to addressing the major demands and issues as raised by the membership.

"We are coming to into these talks focused on improving the quality of our work and the standard of living of our members."  

The CAW-CN Rail collective bargaining agreement expires on December 31, 2010.

For further information:

Angelo DiCaro, CAW Communications [phone]