Unifor members working for CN Transportation Ltd. (CNTL) have ratified a new four-year agreement, it was announced today.

Unifor represents 786 independent owner-operator truck drivers who haul cargo for CN’s Intermodal business, including local, regional and long-haul delivery across Canada. CNTL is a subsidiary company of Canadian National Railway.  The owner-operators are members of Unifor Council 4000 and its five Regional Local Unions across the country – Locals 4001, 4002, 4003, 4004 and 4005.

« There is no doubt this was a challenging round of bargaining, but the outcome for the membership is an agreement that sets a new standard for fair and equitable labour practices in this sector, » said Unifor National President Lana Payne. « This is a significant victory for CNTL workers, ensuring improved working conditions and substantial increases in compensation. »

The agreement includes an increase to the safety bonus, a signing bonus, enhancements to the all-inclusive per diem, an increase to tractor paint allowance, and improvements to highway cut-offs and wait-time compensation.

« We commend the commitment and perseverance demonstrated by the bargaining teams throughout this process, » said Unifor Council 4000 President Dave Kissack. « The agreement is a testament to the power of collective bargaining and underscores the importance of collaboration and support for the bargaining committee. »

The new contract also includes substantial increases to customer and terminal waiting times, zone and mileage rates each year of the agreement and the agreement maintains the fuel subsidy, ensuring a substantial portion of fuel costs remain covered.

(Photo of CNTL owner-operator truck)