Latest News
Sister Tommy Vohs Retires!
July 17th 2026
The Sisters and Brothers of Division 747 extend their congratulations and best wishes to Sister Tommy Vohs on her retirement!
After 39 years of dedicated service, professionalism, and unwavering camaraderie on the rails with both CN and VIA, we celebrate Sister Vohs as she completed her final run on Train 647. Your experience, humor, and guidance will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure of working alongside you.
Wishing you a long, healthy, and happy retirement—enjoy your well-deserved new freedom!
Stronger Members - Stronger Union
April 8th 2026
This training is for YOU!
Training is available to Division 747 Members April 21, 22 & 23.
The Member Foundations Series is a hands-on education program that breaks down how the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference works and how members can actively participate in shaping their workplace and their future.TCRC Member Foundations Series
February 12th 2026
For
years, members have been asking for more information — about
how the union works, how decisions are made, how rights are
protected, and how to stand stronger together on the job.
The TCRC Member Foundations Series is our answer. This new national education program was built by our members, for our members.
negotiations Update #3
February 11, 2026
Since our last update, your bargaining committee and the Corporation have met again to continue negotiations for the renewal of Collective Agreements 1.4 and 4.2.
We are pleased to announce that after intensive meetings over the past two weeks, an agreement was reached with the employer earlier today. Details of the agreement will be communicated to you as soon as possible once the translation of the documents is completed.
negotiations Update #2
December 5, 2025
This
letter is to keep you informed about the progress of the
negotiations currently underway between the TCRC and Via
Rail. We met with the Corporation on several days last week
and again this week.
In Memoriam – Brother Jim Putney
November 30th2025
It is with great sadness that Division 747 shares the news of the passing of our retired Brother Jim Putney on October 31, 2025.
Before joining the railway, Jim served with the Niagara Parks Police. He later began what would become a long and respected railroad career, first with CN Rail and then with VIA Rail. Jim worked as both a conductor and a locomotive engineer, and he was known throughout his years of service for his steady hand, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to the job.
Update #1 on negotiations
November 8th 2025
Negotiations Update
Since the notice to bargain was exchanged between the parties, your TCRC bargaining committee has had five days of meetings with the Corporation in Montreal. The meetings have so far progressed normally, and contractual demands were exchanged between the parties. The issues important to our membership have been addressed to the Corporation.
Support for Bac Pham
November 7th 2025
Bac Pham, a well-respected Carman in Ottawa, recently suffered a severe stroke on August 24, only two months before his planned retirement.
Bac is well known among many of our members who work into Ottawa for his kindness, work ethic, and positive attitude. A GoFundMe has been organized by his friend Pierre Christoff to help with the cost of a wheelchair, ramp, and other recovery expenses.
In Memoriam – Brother JP McKay
October 28th 2025
It is with great sadness that we share news of the passing of our Brother John Paul (JP) McKay on October 25, 2025, at the age of 72.
Brother McKay was a highly respected locomotive engineer who spent 45 years of dedicated service with CN and VIA Rail. Over the course of his long and proud career, he earned the respect and friendship of all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
747 RETIREMENT PARTY!
October 7th 2025
Join
us at a retirement celebration!
In honour of Gord Campbell, Rob Terry & Ken Roach
Saturday November 1st 2025
Doors open 1600 & Dinner is at 1800.
Brother David Albert Delcloo
April 25th, 2025
David
passed away April 25th, 2025, from cancer. He was husband of 60 years to
Patricia Delcloo (née Swim/Clark), father to David (Valerie Eddleman) and
Charlene (John Hladky), grandfather to Albert and William Delcloo and Matthew
Hladky. David will be missed by his sisters and brothers-in-law, Rose and Larry
Swan (Ottawa) and Curtis and Marion Swim (Wirral, NB). He will be remembered by
his cousins, Eleanor Nordquist and Patricia Benson, and their families.
Brother Ken Roach's Last Run!
February 1st 2025
Brother Ken Roach made his final run on Train 76 after a long and storied career with CN and VIA. The Brothers and Sisters of Division 747 want to acknowledge and celebrate Brother Roach’s amazing career. We will all miss his friendship and incredible experience as a railroader.
Brother Gord Campbell Retires!
January 4th 2025
After a distinguished career with both CN and VIA, we wish you all the best in your well-deserved retirement. May you enjoy your newfound freedom to the fullest, and we look forward to seeing you this fall.
Congratulations Gord!
2024 Retirement Party!
November 18th 2024
Division
747 retirement party 2024 was a huge success!
It was a great mix of friends, previously retired, and current employees. The stories, laughter, food and drinks were the perfect combination for an unforgettable evening. The countdown is on for next year!
Brother Eduardo Veloso Retires!
July 21st 2024
The Sisters and Brothers of Division 747 want to wish our number one yard Bro, Eduardo Veloso, a happy retirement after 45 years of dedicated service at Via Rail.
Your knowledge and good humour behind the YM’s chair will be missed. We hope you have a long and happy retirement, Bro!
Brother Rod MacDonald
July 8th 2024
Sisters and Brothers,
It is with deep regret that Division 747 informs you of the
peaceful passing of our brother, Rod MacDonald. The
membership of Division 747 expresses its deepest condolences
to the MacDonald family in this time of loss.
Please Support the Farquhar Family
June 29th 2024
Sadly, in September 2023, Brother Michael Farquhar fell ill. In October, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor and underwent surgery to remove the majority of it. Despite the surgery, Michael required six weeks of radiation therapy. Unfortunately, 10 days after his discharge, he faced serious post-operative complications, leaving him unable to return to work.
Brother Farquhar’s current benefits run out in July 2024. To assist the Farquhar family during this difficult time, a GoFundMe page has been set up.
Russ Joys Retires!
June 17th 2024
Division 747 would like to congratulate Brother Russ Joys on his retirement after 45 years of service with CN and Via rail. We all hope you have a long and happy retirement as your experience and good humor will be missed by all of us that had the pleasure of working with you. May the suds always be cold and the chicken wings hot, enjoy it Russ.
Dave Whitnall Retires!
May 22nd 2024
Brother we wish you a long and healthy retirement and hope you have lots of plans for your well earned rest.
Brother Phil Hope’s last trip!
March 31st 2024
Division 747 wants to congratulate Brother Phillip Hope on his retirement from Via Rail.
Brother Hope has been a fixture at Via for many years in various positions. His dedication and service to division 747 and the TCRC Central for Via will not be forgotten, as an LC than GC. Brother Hope, you are truly one of the last gentleman of the railway, your knowledge, candor and the way you handle yourself with members and management alike is something the future can learn from. May your successor have the same wisdom and carry themselves with the same dignity you brought to those positions.
Brother Lance "Muggy" Mugford
January 6th 2024
It is with deep regret that Division 747 informs you of the peaceful passing of our brother Lance Mugford, affectionately known as "Muggy." At this time, no details regarding a service are available.
Muggy had a long career on the railway with CN, Bombardier and Via. Muggy was the consummate old school railroader with a grumpy and gruff exterior and a very warm and gentle heart if he let you see it.
TCRC App
December 14th 2023
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TCRC
Website Redesign & App
The Executive Board is proud to inform you that this is now completed.
747 RETIREMENT PARTY!
October 29th 2023
Division 747 Retirement Party held to honor our members who retired. Special thanks to TCRC President Brother Paul Boucher for attending and saying some kinds words on behalf of the TCRC.
It was a good old fashioned railroad retirement party with good food, drinks
and stories. A good mix of our younger members and veteran members were able to
share stories and fellowship.
747 RETIREMENT PARTY!
September 27th 2023
After
3 long years, join us in honouring:
Fred Boimistruck, Mike Bonczuk, Larry Bowman, John Boyd, Mike Campbell, Ted Chadwick, Ted Chodkiewicz, Brian Corcoran, Pierre Cote, Paul Elliott, Brad Finlay, Ken Fitzgerald, Paul Holden, Eric Honkaheimo, Peter Koszusko, Ted Kowbuz, Don LeClair, Dino Marciori, Ron Mastramatteo, John Mitchell, Don Morgan, Les Morgan, Lance Mugford, Andy Mysakowicz, Jim Owttrit m, Henry Rawdat, Glenn Salt, Jack Strachan, Steve Swindall, & Joe Webb.
Saturday October 21st at Maple Leaf House Grill and Lounge in Mimico
Give ‘em the send off they deserve - See you there!
VIA Rail Pass Program
May 23rd 2023
Rail
Pass Program for permanent management employees and
executives, employees represented by TCRC, as well as
retirees formerly management or represented by TCRC (or
BLE).
The rail pass program is designed to make permanent management employees and executives, employees represented by TCRC, as well as retirees formerly management or represented by TCRC (or BLE) the best ambassadors of VIA Rail, promote a better understanding of our products and services, and allow us to introduce train travel to new users.
Via Rail renames section of track for Brockville-area train enthusiast
December 21st 2022
If
you've spent any time at the Brockville VIA station, you've
probably seen Chelsea Cadieux.
Cadieux has been enthusiastically greeting VIA engineers for the past 12 years, presenting each with their favourite playing cards as they pass through town.
On Wednesday, VIA Rail gave Chelsea a special gift for her enthusiasm, renaming a section of slow speed track nearby, known as a siding, after her.
Congratulations Brother Moloney!
January 5th 2023
On
July 7th 2022 Oliver Moloney and Bhavish Luximon both
received the VIA Rail Canada Chief of Police Commendation.
This was the first time this commendation was given to a civilian. Oliver and Bhavish were recognized after saving a life on March 16th 2022.
Brother Cory Kennedy Wins Challenge
October 30th 2022
Division
747 member Cory Kennedy participated in a workplace fitness
challenge, and won! He was gifted an iPad for his efforts. Cory is pictured here with his wife Claire.
Congratulations Corry!
John Mitchell Retires!
January 18th 2021
Our
Brother John Mitchell has retired and the membership at 747
want to offer our sincere wishes for a long and happy
retirement!
Enjoy your well earned retirement brother, your friendship and good humor will be missed by all of us. We all look forward to the day we can celebrate with you and all our recent retirees.
In Memory of Brother Dale Pringle
November 7th 2020
The
Sisters and Brothers of Division 747 want to express our
deepest sympathy to the Pringle family. I will share a
message I sent Dale before he passed:
An uncanny bond because of the craziness, drama and trauma we all collectively share. So know as you journey towards what awaits all of us is that we are with you in spirit and our thoughts. Thank you Brother.
Safe travels.
Lance “Muggy” Mugford
November 7th 2020
Sisters and Brothers,
To say you have gone more miles backwards than some engineers have gone forward is not a joke. You have passed the knowledge of our craft to many young railroaders and we thank you. Enjoy it Muggy, you deserve it!
Remembering Brother Bryan Buchan
July 14th 2020
Sisters and Brothers, It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Brother Bryan Buchan.
What could you say about Mr. Buchan? Bryan was a jokester but a serious railroader. Never a fan of used car salesmen, even keeled and just wanted to do his job and “get to the finish line” with CN, GO and finally Via rail.
Anyone lucky enough to train with Bryan probably smoked or was a young hogger, and they learned how to do things from a professional.
Brother Larry Bowman
January 31st 2020
The Sisters and Brothers of Division 747 want to wish Brother
Larry Bowman a happy retirement.
Brother Joe Webb's Last Trip!
January 31st 2020
The Sisters and Brothers of Division 747 want to congratulate
Brother Joe Webb on his retirement.
After many years at CN and Via you get to enjoy a well deserved new career doing what ever you want!
We will miss your friendship and professionalism, and wish you all the best on the trails!
Les and Don Morgan's Last Trip!
January 31st 2020
The Sisters and Brothers of Division 747 want to wish the
Brothers Morgan the best in their retirement!
Don and Les have a proud railway background and with a combined 85 year’s service. They trained many of the future generations to come. We will all miss your kindness and good humor. Your dad would be proud of your careers. We all wish you the best and hope to see you at the retirement party!