Railway shutdown would be ‘devastating’ for small businesses: CFIB

Railway shutdown would be ‘devastating’ for small businesses: CFIB MONTREAL — A potential work stoppage at Canada's two major railways this week would harm small companies — from mom-and-pop shops to outfits with scores of workers — the Canadian Federation of Independent Business says. Christopher Reynolds, The Canadian Press Aug 19, 2024 12:52 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message A CN Rail train moves cargo containers at the Centerm Container Terminal at port in Vancouver, on July 14, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck Listen to this article 00:01:25 MONTREAL — A potential work stoppage at Canada's two major railways this week would harm small companies — from mom-and-pop shops to outfits with scores of workers — the Canadian Federation of Independent Business says.

"Any disruptions to railway operations could be devastating for small businesses, their employees and communities," Jasmin Guenette, the group's head of national affairs, said in a release. "Many small businesses rely on rail services to send and receive goods, products and essential materials. The longer the work stoppage goes on, the costlier it becomes for small firms who may lose sales and contracts if goods are not delivered or received on time.

" A phased shutdown of the networks at Canadian National Railway Co. and Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. is already underway as the clock ticks down on negotiations with the union representing 9,.