Brothers and Sisters,
 
The following was sent to me by CAW local 101 President Tom Murphy. The CAW at CP is being hit hard with cutbacks, even though the majority of main line derailments are caused by track or equipment failure. At a time when the company needs more than ever to step up preventative maintenance, safety inspections and proper repairs, they decide to close shops and send trained, qualified and integral employees home.
 
It seems that CP President and CEO went to address the CAW workers, without the Union present.  This is bad enough, but even worse is that Brother Murphy tells me, when CP President and CEO Fred Green was made aware of concerns (safety, quality of life and hardship) from CAW members at this location, he told them to "Suck it up, Buttercup".
 
Understandably these members were shocked and insulted, much the same as we were when we heard Mr. Green's "..we don't need.." the Maintenance of Way employees statement at his now famous Bear Sterns speech. Perhaps they will also receive a left handed apology letter.
 
I have never met Fred Green (not for lack of trying) so cannot comment on him personally. But if an individual is to be judged by his actions and his words, all I can say is that I am constantly surprised that he is in charge of a multi billion dollar corporation.
 
Remember, an injury to one is an injury to all.  And as was made very clear on our recent H&S Policy conference call, when the company puts a cost to safety, it is us that pay the price.
 
Stay safe, stay strong, stay united.
 
Bill Brehl
President
TCRC MWED