The federal government is allocating over $4.7 billion for Via Rail as part of its Buy Canadian Policy to procure and maintain 313 new passenger rail cars from Alstom Canada. This marks the first time in forty years that Via Rail will have its passenger cars manufactured entirely in Canada, a departure from its previous reliance on U.S.-made cars.
During a visit to the Alstom Plant in Thunder Bay, Ont., Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted the significant Canadian involvement in the project, emphasizing that Canadian workers, including electricians, machinists, and welders, will play key roles in the production process. The manufacturing and assembly of the cars will take place in Thunder Bay and La Pocatière, Que., with design and engineering work based in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, Que.
The government anticipates that this initiative could inject more than $1.6 billion into the economy and create around 700 jobs in Ontario and Quebec. Michael Keroullé, president and CEO of Alstom Americas, described the contract as a transformative opportunity to replace aging cars and collaborate with Via Rail on a national level.
The introduction of these new passenger cars aligns with ongoing infrastructure investments, with Mathieu Paquette, interim CEO of Via Rail Canada, stressing the vital role of rail services as a lifeline for many Canadians. The fleet will feature a variety of sleeper cars and panorama dome cars, promising a renewed and enhanced travel experience for passengers.
For workers at the Alstom Plant in Thunder Bay, such as Justin Roberts, president of Unifor Local 1075, the contract signifies a welcome sense of job security after a period of uncertainty and layoffs. The positive impact of the contract was also acknowledged by local organizations like the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission and the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association.
Charla Robinson, president of the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, expressed pride in the Canadian collaboration and unity that led to securing the contract. She emphasized the importance of such investments in fostering a stronger community and manufacturing sector, providing long-term benefits and training opportunities for the region.
Despite ongoing tensions between Canada and the U.S., investments like these are seen as crucial for local economic growth and stability, offering a sense of reassurance amid global uncertainties. The project is expected to not only strengthen the community but also contribute to job creation and skills development for years to come.