CPKC signals workers strike over pay and working conditions

Close to 300 signals workers with Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd. have gone on strike after the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and the railway failed to reach a contract agreement.

The job action began Sunday morning when the union's 72-hour strike notice expired. The IBEW says the workers install, maintain, test, and repair railway signalling and communications systems across the CPKC network from Vancouver to Montreal — critical infrastructure for rail operations.

CPKC says it has implemented contingency plans and maintained safe and efficient rail service, though the union's walkout could disrupt freight and passenger movements across the network if prolonged.

The union says despite months of bargaining and completion of federally mandated conciliation and mediation, CPKC has failed to meaningfully address key concerns around recruitment, retention, compensation, and work-life balance within the Signals and Communications department.

"Throughout this process, the union remained committed to reaching a fair negotiated settlement for our members," said IBEW official Jason Sommer. "Unfortunately, the company failed to meaningfully address the issues affecting recruitment, retention, compensation, and work-life balance."

The strike is backed by a 96 per cent strike mandate vote. CPKC has offered wage and benefit increases consistent with its collective agreements with other unions and has called for the union to accept binding arbitration. The railway expressed disappointment that a work stoppage could not be prevented after months of bargaining.