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VIA Rail bargaining continues; next dates set for May
Update from the bargaining table:
Council 4000 and Local 100 master bargaining committees met with VIA Rail this week, from April 14 to 17, as part of the ongoing conciliation process.
Despite the formal structure of conciliation, VIA Rail continues to demand sweeping concessions on work rules that would significantly undermine job security, scheduling rights, and established protections. These proposals are an attack on core working conditions and the stability of our memberships.
Your committees have been unequivocal: these concessions will not be accepted.
We are standing firm in defence of your rights and will not allow VIA Rail to use this round of bargaining to erode what generations of members have fought to secure.
What is the conciliation process:
Under the Canada Labour Code, when parties are unable to reach an agreement, either can file a notice of dispute, prompting the appointment of a Conciliation Officer by the federal government. This officer acts as a neutral third party to assist both sides in reaching a settlement
As part of the formal conciliation process now underway, here’s a quick overview of how it works:
Where are we in the process?
We are now midway through the conciliation period. The next round of talks scheduled for May 6 to 9, 2025.
Notice of dispute filed: March 26, 2025
Appointment of conciliators: April 1, 2025
Conciliation period: April 1 to May 31, 2025
Cooling-off period: May 31 to June 21, 2025
Legal strike deadline: June 21, 2025 at midnight
Privatization risk remains
The federal government continues to advance its plan to shift corridor passenger rail service to Alto, a Crown corporation managing the High Frequency Rail project.
Alto is in a six-year co-development phase with the Cadence consortium, which includes private companies like CDPQ Infra and Keolis. VIA Rail has confirmed it will have no operational control over the development phase.
This structure puts good public rail jobs at risk. Your committees are demanding full transparency and strong protections for all members.
Additional Bargaining Dates and Next Steps:
Your committees are preparing for a strike mandate should negotiations fail to advance during the upcoming May 6 to 9 bargaining dates.
We encourage all members to stay engaged and informed through union channels or by visiting the bargaining website.
In solidarity,
Council 4000 and Local 100 VIA Rail Master Bargaining Committees
