The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) expressed its gratitude to the federal government for employing Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code to mandate binding arbitration in the ongoing railway labour dispute.
APAS President,Ian Boxall said the intervention has provided a necessary solution to end the recent service disruptions that have significantly impacted agricultural producers across the country.
He added that the government action not only aids in the immediate resumption of rail operations but also underscores the importance of maintaining a stable and efficient supply chain, essential for the agriculture sector and the overall health of the Canadian economy.
“I commend the Government’s recent actions to intervene in the rail dispute, but it highlights a greater need. To truly safeguard our agricultural sector and the nation’s economy from future disruptions, we call on the federal government to create a much stronger preventative conflict resolution system,” Boxall said in a press release.
“By developing a dependable and proactive framework within our critical infrastructure supply chain, we can greatly reduce economic chaos and uncertainty, while bolstering the dependability of our products in international markets.”
Boxall encouraged both the railways and their respective unions to continue their efforts to negotiate in good faith to reach a comprehensive and lasting agreement.
“It is in the interest of all parties involved, as well as the broader community, that a harmonious and constructive relationship is maintained,” said Boxall.
However, some groups say a resolution hasn’t come quick enough. Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) issued a statement on Friday saying negotiating parties have yet to reach an agreement on resumption of activities, despite clear directives from the government.
GGC Chair, Andre Harpe said Grain farmers will continue to lose $50 million a day with the continuance of a total shutdown.
“For the good of Canada’s food, economic, and national security, we are calling on all parties to abide by yesterday’s directives and to work with, not against, the CIRB to resume railway service,” said Andre Harpe, chairman GGC.
Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) represents over 65,000 producers through our 14 national, provincial and regional grower groups.
APAS advocates for Saskatchewan’s farmers and ranchers and represents ratepayers in 135 rural municipalities.
