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BMWE, CP Rail reach tentative contract

CALGARY, Feb. 25 -- Canadian Pacific Railway and the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes have signed a memorandum of settlement covering a new employment contract through the end of the year 2000.

The agreement provides for wage increases of 2 percent for each of the three years of the contract. In addition to benefit improvements, there are a number of work/rule changes that will enhance productivity and improve lifestyle for BMWE members.

The settlement is still subject to ratification by BMWE membership, which represents about 2,700 workers on CP Rail. Overall, the BMWE has 52,000 members.

It is the second settlement reached this month between CP Rail and its unions. An agreement, still subject to ratification, was reached with the BLE's Rail Canada Traffic Controllers on February 7.

To date, the agreements have been reached with five of seven CP Rail unions representing more than 70% of unionized employees in Canada. Agreements have been ratified by train crew personnel, clerical workers, and signal system maintainers. Negotiations are continuing with unions representing shop employees and police.

Full details of the agreement will not be released until it has been provided to the BMWE's members.