Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. member for raising a very important issue.
As the Minister of Labour reported to this House yesterday, CP Rail and three of its unions representing 2,900 workers reached a tentative settlement on March 12, 1995 withthe assistance of the Federal Mediation and ConciliationService. The agreements provide for wage increases, modified employment security and a variety of benefit improvements. The settlements are subject to ratification by the unionmemberships.
I understand that CP Rail is meeting with the BMWE today and I would encourage them to make every effort to settle their collective bargaining differences.
I am advised that the impact of the work stoppage at CP Rail has been limited and that the railway is continuing to operate its core lines.
Collective bargaining is continuing in a number of railway negotiations. The parties must be given every opportunity to settle their disputes in collective bargaining as provided for under the terms of the Canada Labour Code. However, the parties must accept their responsibility to resume bargaining and conclude an agreement not only in the interests of their members and shareholders but also for the Canadian public.
The railways and the unions have the necessary insight and experience to resolve the complex issues in dispute.
Any discussion of legislative intervention at this time would be premature. The federal mediation and conciliation service remains in contact with the parties, available to assist them in their negotiations.