Arbitrator appointed for CP labor disputes

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
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William Kaplan has been appointed arbitrator in the disputes between Canadian Pacific Railway and Teamsters Canada Rail Conference, representing bargaining units of approximately 220 rail traffic controllers and 4, 200 locomotive engineers, conductors, trainspersons and yardmen.

“The appointment of an arbitrator is a key step in resolving these disputes,” said Honorable Minister Lisa Raitt, Canada’s labor minister. “I urge the parties to work together and extend their full cooperation to Mr. Kaplan.”

On May 28, 2012, the Canadian government tabled Bill C-39, the Restoring Rail Service Act, to end the labor disputes between the parties, consequently protecting the economy from the harmful effects of a drawn-out work stoppage. As part of this legislation, which received Royal Assent on May 31, 2012, Kaplan has been appointed to resolve the parties’ outstanding issues through an interest-based binding arbitration process. He must render his decision within 90 days of his appointment, unless an extension is provided by Canada’s Labor Minister.

Kaplan was suggested by both Canadian Pacific and Teamsters Canada Rail Conference. He is an experienced arbitrator and mediator who has helped numerous parties find resolution to their issues since 1989.

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