IOC train derailment in Quebec pauses service in Labrador West for at least week

A train derailment over the weekend in Quebec is disrupting services in Labrador West for at least a week.

In a social media post on Monday evening, the Iron Ore Company of Canada said a derailment happened on Sunday on the main line of the Quebec North Shore and Labrador Railway, and the resulting damage disrupted traffic.

“Rail traffic is currently suspended for an estimated period of seven to 10 days to allow the necessary repairs to be carried out,” said the statement.

“No one was injured, and the required measures are in place to support our teams in the field and ensure that the work is carried out safely, despite the expected weather conditions.”

The statement did not say what caused the derailment or the extent of the damage.

The Quebec North Shore and Labrador Railway is a private Canadian regional railway that connects Labrador City with Quebec.

Rio Tinto spokesperson Simon Letendre told CBC News the derailment occurred near the Nicman area.

"We are investigating the cause of the derailment and will communicate additional details when they become available," he said in an email.

Passenger service paused

Tshiuetin Transportation Inc., which operates a passenger train service on the train line, has also cancelled its runs for the time being.

In a letter dated Dec. 29, the company said it expects the railway track to be unusable for at least a week.

“As a result, passenger train service is cancelled until further notice. No resumption of service is expected before the end of this minimum period,” it reads.

The letter, signed by general manager and COO James Berube, called this an "exceptional situation” and said the Tshiuetin Railway is working with three shareholder communities — Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam the Innu Nation of Matimekush Lac-John and the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach — to find ways to help the people who rely on the service get home.

“Tshiuetin Railway recognizes the significant impacts of this service disruption, particularly during the holiday period, and remains fully committed to supporting the affected communities.”

CBC News has asked Tshiuetin Railway for an interview.

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