MONTREAL — Contract negotiations between VIA Rail and Unifor have broken down, raising the possibility of a nationwide rail disruption later this month that could significantly impact passenger travel across Canada.
Unifor, which represents nearly 2,500 VIA Rail employees, confirmed over the weekend that talks have stalled after another week of bargaining in Montreal failed to produce a tentative agreement.
“We didn’t come to the table looking for a dispute – we came to get a deal,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “But VIA Rail’s refusal to take our demands seriously has left us with no other choice. If they’re not willing to fix what’s broken, they’re forcing this dispute onto workers and passengers alike.”
The union claims VIA Rail is holding firm on key concessions and not addressing what it calls critical issues affecting workers’ livelihoods, particularly in the On-Board Services spare board system.
“These negotiations were about fairness, respect, and stability for our members,” said Unifor Quebec Director Daniel Cloutier. “We came ready to make a deal that addressed the real issues workers face every day. It’s disappointing that the employer walked away from that opportunity.”
According to Unifor, one of the most serious issues is VIA Rail’s refusal to fix the crisis on the On-Board Services spare boards. With workers facing chronic short hours and reduced pay due to VIA Rail’s “mismanagement of the board system,” many are unable to earn a living wage.
The federal conciliation period officially ended on May 31. Under Canadian labour law, Unifor will be in a legal strike position as of 00:01 a.m. EST on June 22, 2025.
Both sides are scheduled to return to the bargaining table on June 17, with negotiations expected to continue until the deadline. The union says it remains committed to reaching an agreement but is prepared for a national strike if necessary.
Unifor Council 4000 represents approximately 1,800 VIA Rail workers in station services, maintenance centres, headquarters and onboard trains. Local 100 represents 700 VIA Rail employees working as Diesel Engine Mechanics, Electricians, Railcar Technicians and General Workers.
