http://www.nytimes.com/2015/02...&WT.nav=top-news
It was noted in the article that Hunter Harrison's efforts have affected labor relations negatively.
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I don't know how Hunter Harrison sleeps at night!
You have to read this with the knowledge that the real story is somewhat less newsworthy.
Any time the railroad unions issue press releases concerning rest, they are tainted by drama. While it is true that on-board employees need consideration for getting adequate rest, they also have a responsibility to make actually getting rest in their off-duty hours a top priority. It's not one-sided, and it does need to be a topic of discussion between the railroads and the unions.
And, yes, Hunter Harrison is a tough guy who is remediating the inefficient management practices of the previous CPR management. He was not elected -- he was appointed. CPR and its employees will get past this current dispute, and, in time, will be better than they were at what they do. Harrison is not a labor-baiter, but he is an assertive executive with a mess to clean up.
Tom - I noted in your profile that you have an extensive railroad operations and management background. Might you be able to shed more light on the condition of Canadian Pacific at the time of Harrison's arrival? To the best of my limited understanding, Canadian Pacific has always been profitable. I have heard some grumbling from a CP employee or two that maintenace is being differed to puff up profits. CP's control has been wrested by an LBO outfit, and wonder if employees are being squeezed for their benefit?
The dispute was sent to binding arbitration by the parties yesterday, under threat of being legislated back to work by Ottawa. A container train with CP and UP power passed through Belleville, ON about 10:15 am Tuesday morning. There was an eastbound general freight before noon.
