Union representing Via Rail workers says strike is imminent The union representing customer service and on-board service workers at Via Rail and the CAW are still talking in Montreal but the sides are still far apart on a number of outstanding issues, according to the union. Around 2,500 Via Rail workers are expecting to walk-off the job at 12:01 a.m. Friday following the latest offer from the railway company. “Talks are taking place at the committee level, and have been between high level officials over the past few hours, but we are still miles apart on key issues,” said Bob Orr, Assistant to the CAW National President. “The Corporation hasn’t much wavered on some extraordinary concession demands that would radically impact our collective agreement, and that’s holding things up.” Via is looking to eliminate income security benefits for 500 precarious seasonal workers, strip part-time workers of job security provisions and cut pension benefits for new hires. Orr said the union bargaining committee is not optimistic that a strike can be avoided at this late stage in the talks. The Canadian Auto Workers said talks have completely broken down with Via and the union sees “no chance” of avoiding a strike. Contract talks have been ongoing since October. Via Rail presented its latest proposal to employees on Wednesday, offering wage increases of two per cent a year over three years. However, the union said the company’s plans to increase pension contributions means workers will be taking home less money. In the event of a strike, management will continue to offer basic railway services, including daily trips in the morning and at the end of the day on the Quebec City to Windsor, Ont., corridor. Long-distance trips and service to remote locations will be provided once a week.
Posted on: Thu, 13 Jun 2013 22:58:27 +0000
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