Teamsters Canada Rail Conference

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

On March 22nd, the TCRC and VIA Rail Canada met in Montreal to commence Collective Bargaining as required by the “Code”, this with the assistance of a Mediator appointed by the Minister of Labour.

During the bargaining process the parties agreed that there were no essential services to be
maintained as required by the “Code” – (s. 87.4 (1)).

Additionally, the parties agreed that there would be no strike/lockout and there has and will not be any changes in working conditions prior to May 7th, 2011.

The parties have agreed to meet for the continuation of Collective Bargaining during the week of April 4th, 2011.

Your negotiating team is cautiously optimistic that a negotiated Collective Agreement can be reached with VIA Rail.

Further updates will be made available as appropriate as Collective Bargaining continues.

Fraternally,

Rex Beatty
President - TCRC