Via Rail, Metrolinx warn of disruptions by CP Rail strike

Passenger train providers in Ontario and B.C. are warning of potential disruptions to service as Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. and two of its unions negotiate ahead of a midnight deadline to settle contract issues.

Union and company sources said Friday morning that marathon contract talks are continuing but no progress can be reported as yet.

“Negotiations are ongoing, it’s aroundthe-clock bargaining here, and we’re working hard to try to reach a negotiated settlement to try to avoid a strike,” said Christopher Monette, spokesperson for the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference.

On Wednesday, the Teamsters, which represent over 3,000 CP Rail conductors and engineers, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, with about 365 signal and communications workers, gave the railroad 72-hour notice of strike action.

Via Rail Canada warned passengers Friday it may have to cancel morning trains on Saturday and Sunday between Sudbury and White River, Ont., if the labour dispute results in a shutdown of CP Rail services.

“VIA Rail is following the negotiations closely and is currently analyzing the scenarios and potential effects of the work stoppage on its operations in order to minimize the impact on its passenger services, should it occur,” it said in a statement, adding it is in contact with customers who have reservations on affected trains.

Greater Toronto transit operator Metrolinx said there could be delays for customers on its Milton and Barrie lines if CP Rail managers filling in for union workers are unable to address signal or switch issues on CP Rail-owned portions of the corridors. It added CP also owns a section of corridor leading into the Hamilton GO Centre and train service to and from this station would not be provided. .