The Surrey Board of Trade (SBOT) is expressing significant concern over the impending rail strike and its potential to severely disrupt business operations, exacerbate cost pressures, and tarnish Canada’s global image as a reliable trade partner. With CN Rail and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) set to issue lockout notices and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference union threatening strike action, the consequences for Surrey’s economy and the broader Lower Mainland could be profound.
“The anticipated rail strike could not come at a worse time for our businesses, many of which are already grappling with supply chain challenges and rising costs,” said Anita Huberman, President and CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade. “Any disruption will reverberate across our local economy, impacting everything from manufacturing to retail, and ultimately affecting the livelihoods of our residents.”
The Surrey Board of Trade highlights that Surrey businesses, particularly those reliant on the Port of Vancouver’s rail services, could face significant challenges. CN and CPKC have already begun embargoing certain hazardous and refrigerated goods in anticipation of the disruption, signaling the severe impact this labour dispute could have on the flow of goods. Data from August 19, 2024, indicates a noticeable reduction in rail production at container terminals, with a drop from over 63,000 feet on August 16 to under 40,000 feet on August 19. This trend, if it continues, could spell disaster for businesses depending on timely deliveries.
Transit authorities say select commuter lines that run on CPKC tracks in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver will be suspended should dispatchers walk off the job at 12:01 a.m. EDT on Thursday, August 22, alongside 3,200 other workers. This will greatly shock transportation in Metro Vancouver as TransLink’s West Coast Express will be impacted.
“We are calling on all parties involved to reach a swift resolution to avoid exacerbating the economic challenges we are facing,” added Huberman. “A prolonged disruption could weaken our competitiveness and undermine confidence in Canada as a stable and dependable place to do business. Surrey’s businesses cannot afford such a blow.”
The Surrey Board of Trade will continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate for the interests of local businesses during this critical time. We encourage all stakeholders to prioritize collaboration and constructive dialogue to prevent further economic damage.
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Anita Huberman, 604-634-0342, anita@businessinsurrey.com.
