VIA Rail Bargaining Update #4

Unifor continued its negotiations with Canada's national passenger rail provider, VIA Rail Canada, the week of January 28-31.  Both Unifor bargaining committees, National Council 4000 (1,600 members servicing Agreements 1 & 2) and Local 100 (600 members servicing Agreement 3), met with the Crown corporation last week in Montreal.

Both committees discussed a variety of work rule issues that cover the working conditions of our 2,200 Unifor members who work across Canada. Both committees report that talks to this point have been slow but constructive.

Council 4000 has expressed concerns over excessive part-time work, assignments and hours, while Local 100 continues to address the Fleet Replacement Program that will see VIA introduce 32 new trainsets for use in Quebec and Ontario.  The Union is working to ensure that the repairs and maintenance of this new fleet continues to be performed by Local 100 members.  Both bargaining committees remain determined to bargain the best agreement possible and are working hard to secure gains for all members.

We will continue to keep members informed as the information is available.  The union does not bargain in public, but we will use these tools to update you as often as possible.  We would ask all members to not listen to the Employer for updates, or entertain rumours that may come up during the bargaining process.  Please reach out to your local union representatives for additional information or with questions.  This newsletter and the website are your best source for up to date information.  Visit www.unifor.org/viarail to read and share this update online.

Negotiations will continue as follows:

We would like to thank the membership for their continuing show of support.

In solidarity,

Unifor VIA Rail Bargaining Committees
Council 4000 & Local 100