VIA Rail Reaches Deal to Prevent Nationwide Rail Strike

VIA Rail narrowly avoided a strike after reaching a tentative agreement with unionized workers just four days before the legal strike deadline would have taken effect. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Over 2,500 employees—represented by Unifor Council 4000 and Local 100—had been negotiating since October 2024. The workers demanded better wages, stronger job security, and protection from outsourcing in light of future rail developments.

Don’t miss…Metrorail Expands Weekend Hours and Updates Silver Line Routes

Union members include onboard staff, maintenance workers, mechanics, and electricians. Their current agreement is about to expire, prompting calls to safeguard jobs as Canada’s high-speed rail initiative advances.

Union Vote Pressured VIA Rail to Avert Strike

The union raised concerns about a government-led consortium managing the high-speed corridor from Toronto to Québec City. This new structure, involving private partners, could displace public-sector union positions.

VIA Rail initially refused to address financial proposals or step back from controversial concessions. As a result, union members voted overwhelmingly to support a strike—97.5% and 96% in favor, respectively.

This strong mandate gave union leaders leverage during renewed talks. Although the company later discussed monetary terms and involved CEO Mario Péloquin, major disagreements remained.

Union officials criticized how VIA manages the spare board system. Workers often fall short of minimum guaranteed hours, leading to unstable income and wages that fail to match the cost of living.

Tentative Agreement Addresses Strike Concerns and Worker Demands

The conciliation period ended on May 31, triggering a 21-day countdown to possible strike action. As pressure mounted, both sides returned to the table this past Tuesday.

A tentative deal emerged, addressing wages, job protections, and working conditions. While details remain private ahead of ratification meetings, the union confirmed meaningful progress had been made.

The previous agreement included a 5.5% wage hike in the first year, followed by 3.5% and 2.5% increases. Workers now expect comparable gains under the new contract.

Thanks to this eleventh-hour deal, VIA Rail avoided a disruptive labor stoppage. The agreement still requires member approval, but both parties appear committed to maintaining long-term operational stability.

Source, photo: albertaworker.ca

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: