In a bold move, Unifor, Canada’s largest private-sector union, is calling on Canadian National Railway (CN) to prioritize the proper management of its rail infrastructure. The union’s demand stems from concerns about the safety and efficiency of VIA Rail’s passenger services, which have been impacted by recent speed restrictions on key rail corridors.
“This is about CN stepping up to fulfil its obligations to all rail users,” declared Unifor National President Lana Payne. “Passenger rail must be prioritized to ensure that services like VIA Rail can operate safely and efficiently.”
Unifor argues that CN, as the owner and primary manager of these tracks, has a responsibility to collaborate more effectively with passenger rail operators. The union criticizes CN’s lack of engagement in timely discussions to accommodate the necessary infrastructure adjustments for VIA Rail’s new trains. “CN’s responsibility goes beyond sending notifications—it must actively facilitate a rail system that accommodates all users,” emphasized Payne.
The recent delays along the Quebec City-Ottawa-Toronto corridor, caused by speed restrictions on CN-owned tracks, have highlighted the lack of regulatory oversight and CN’s dominant control over Canada’s rail infrastructure. This situation is significantly affecting passenger services, prompting Unifor to call for increased government regulation to prevent freight operators from overshadowing passenger rail.
Unifor believes that the government must reassert regulatory control to ensure a balanced approach that considers the needs of all rail users. The union is also advocating for increased investment in passenger rail infrastructure, fair regulation, and a rail network that prioritizes the needs of Canadians.
By calling for a more collaborative and equitable approach to rail management, Unifor seeks to ensure that Canada’s passenger rail services operate safely and efficiently, meeting the needs of Canadians and fostering a sustainable future for the country’s transportation system.