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Strike Reauthorization: The Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) members have reauthorized strikes against CN and CPKC railroads.
- 98.6% voted in favor at CN with a 90.1% turnout.
- 99.2% voted in favor at CPKC with an 88.6% turnout.
- CPKC rail traffic controllers also voted 95.7% in favor with an 88.5% turnout.
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Initial Strike Authorization:
- Strikes were initially authorized on May 1 but put on hold pending a decision from the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) about essential services during a work stoppage.
- The reauthorization vote was necessary because the initial authorization was only valid for 60 days.
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Union's Stance:
- TCRC President Paul Boucher emphasized the union's opposition to proposed changes by the railroads that they believe would worsen working conditions and rail safety.
- The union aims to return to negotiations, involving federal mediators to secure a fair deal.
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Railroad's Response:
- The railroads reject claims that their offers compromise safety, stating their proposals meet new regulatory requirements.
- Both CN and CPKC have refused binding arbitration and the union's suggestion to stagger contract talks to prevent simultaneous strikes.
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Current Status:
- CPKC awaits the CIRB decision and does not anticipate a legal strike or lockout before mid-July.
- CPKC has requested an extension of the cooling-off period by 30 days post-CIRB decision to provide stability and allow stakeholders to prepare.
- CPKC maintains its offer of binding arbitration and two collective bargaining proposals.
{This summary covers the key facts and insights from the original article, offering information about how Canada Rail Conference members reauthorize strikes against CN, CPKC.}