Let’s Get Canada Back on Track!

This campaign is resolved to fight the Government’s privatization plan for VIA Rail and to expand publicly-owned passenger rail in Canada.

At a time when Canadians are clamouring for green public transport solutions and a transition to a low-carbon economy, passenger rail service in Canada is regrettably facing monumental challenges: privatization, service and funding cuts, outdated equipment and poor infrastructure are causing a decline in ridership, an increase in operating costs and are putting safety at risk.

Regrettably, the Government's current privatization plan for VIA Rail is similar to privatization schemes undertaken in the UK, France, Germany and South Korea – in these countries, privatization has led to higher fares, reduced service, deteriorating safety standards and lower salaries.

VIA Rail must remain a public service that benefits passengers – not shareholders.

Since the creation of the Crown Corporation in 1978, VIA Rail has lacked both a mandate and a stable budget to maintain and expand passenger rail service in Canada – in large part because VIA lacks meaningful input from passengers and workers into the service provided to the Canadian traveling public.

It is time for the federal government to strengthen the national passenger rail service in order to better provide safe, reliable and frequent transportation – right across the country – and support the creation of good, green, public and long-term jobs.

Let’s Get Canada Back on Track!

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ITF Global Rail Campaign

Unifor joins ITF #publicownership campaign