Unifor begins VIA Rail employee contract negotiations

Rail News Home Labor 10/28/2019 Rail News: Labor
Unifor represents 2,000 VIA Rail employees.Photo – VIA Rail Canada

Unifor last week began contract negotiations for the 2,000 VIA Rail Canada Inc. employees the union represents.

Members identified key issues in the negotiations, including a strengthened pension plan, made-in-Canada fleet sourcing, and an end to contracting out employees, Unifor officials said in a press release.

Unifor also is calling for a national transportation strategy with supporting legislation for VIA to promote a safe, affordable, accessible and environmentally friendly transportation system, labor officials said.

"As we look toward a greener future with increased use of passenger rail, Unifor's goal is to ensure that jobs in the sector remain good jobs with fair pay, decent benefits and a dignified retirement," said Renaud Gagne, Unifor’s Quebec director.