CPRail Negotiations as of April 22, 2007

April 23, 2007

Brothers and Sisters,

Talks are ongoing with CPRail. We have met with the company each day since last Wednesday. As per the TCRC MWED commitment to the mediator, I am not able to share the specific contents of those talks. However, we are meeting again this morning at 0900.

We have not yet served strike notice and the company has not served lockout notice. For either of these job actions to occur, 72 hour notice must be served to the other party and to the Minister of Labour.

We are continually receiving reports from the field that supervisors are making the claim that we are to be locked out. The company negotiators, though acknowledging that there are supervisors who are saying this, are denying that it is the company's position. Regardless of this confusing "doublespeak", the law states that 72 hour notice must be served and as of yet, it has not been.

Therefore, it is imperative that you report for work on your regular shifts untill you are advised otherwise by the Union. However, if you do report and the company sends you home, contact your Director immediately and we will take it from there.

I realize that most of you are getting anxious and concerned over the current state of bargaining and the possible outcomes. I urge all of you to try your best to put it aside and focus on your job at hand. Your safety is more important than anything else. Our work is extremely dangerous as you know, and it cannot be done safely without your full attention.

Also, be reminded that those of that haven't, must call your Local Chair or your Director and insure that they have current contact info.

If you require more specific information do not hesitate to call your Director, Local Chair or myself.

Stay safe, stay strong, stay united,

Bill Brehl
President
TCRC MWED