People using VIA Rail could suffer some delays later today due to a possible workers ’strike.
“Some July 11 services may be affected. VIA Rail is currently assessing the impact on the services and will post the information on its website shortly,” the Canadian Crown Corporation said in a travel notice.
“VIA Rail remains committed to reaching a fair and reasonable agreement and will keep passengers informed of any possible service interruption.”
The union, which represents more than 2,000 VIA Rail workers, initially issued a strike notice for July 11 at 12:01 p.m., if no new agreement was reached with their company.
On Sunday night, Unifor extended this period until 4pm on Monday.
“We hope that an agreement can be reached,” National Secretary-Treasurer Lana Payne said in a statement.
“Our negotiating committees have been firm in reaching an agreement that respects and values their work.”
Unifor represents approximately 2,400 maintenance workers, on-board service personnel, chefs, sales agents and VIA Rail customer service staff.
VIA Rail, meanwhile, said they also want to avoid a strike.
“It is important to note that talks continue with the support of the conciliators and VIA Rail is working hard to reach an agreement before the deadline,” the company said.
The main point of conflict in the negotiations has been job security.
-with files by Josh Freeman