JASPER, Alberta — Canadian National plans to move operations from Jasper 60 miles east to Hinton, Canada’s Global News reports.
A wildfire burned through Jasper in July 2024, burning about one-third of the city and displacing thousands of residents. Caught in the fire was CN’s crew bunkhouse, which the railroad has since rebuilt.
On Monday, the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference was informed of CN’s decision. The move is scheduled for September 2025. The change, which is scheduled for September 2025, will affects around 200 union workers, according to the union.
“This is another devastating blow to the town of Jasper, after this year’s catastrophic wildfires. Rail is one of the largest industries in Jasper, after tourism, and CN’s move will cripple this community even further. And for the workers who’ve already lost so much — some even their homes — this is a truly cruel blow,” says President, Teamsters Canada Rail Conference Paul Boucher. “At a time when Jasper residents are still trying to pull their lives back together, CN is once again putting profits over people, oblivious to the needs of its employees and the community.”
“These types of changes take time to fully plan out and implement. That’s why one of our initial steps was to have this discussion with our employees as well as advising the town of Jasper,” says CN spokeswoman Ashley Michnowski in an email statement to Global News.
VIA Rail Canada and Rocky Mountaineer Railtours also operate through Jasper.
Looks like CN is looking for what Washington insiders call a “Quid Pro Joe”.
What is CN’s justification for the move? What functions are currently done at Jasper, at Hinton? What will be accomplished by this move?
This will be a hot potato in the “To be Announced” Federal election. Surprised that Danny Smith has not said something? I will be surprised if this is not overturned.
Obviously, this is like rats deserting a sinking ship.
This is a bit premature and CN should reconsider this wrong decision.