LOCATION: National
Issue/Source: Canadian National implemented operating restrictions on VIA Rail’s new Venture fleet in the Quebec City–Windsor corridor
Date: June 2025
SUGGESTED RESPONSES
- Transport Canada is committed to the safety of railway operations and monitoring railway companies for compliance with safety rules and regulations.
- Railway companies are responsible for ensuring the safety of their operations, as per the Railway Safety Act. Under the regulatory framework, railway companies have the prerogative to impose operating rules on their networks. In fact, they are obligated to do so if they have identified a risk to safety.
- As noted in its First Quarter Report 2025, VIA Rail is currently experiencing declining on-time performance for its Corridor services, due in part to growing commuter and freight traffic on congested shared infrastructure (e.g., VIA Rail owns less than 3% of the track it operates on), and current operating restrictions imposed on VIA Rail by CN resulting in speed limitations at some crossings. VIA Rail’s on-time performance dropped to 30%, down from 72% last year.
- Transport Canada is aware of the operating restrictions in place in the Québec City–Windsor corridor that are currently affecting the operations of VIA Rail’s Venture fleet and recognizes the importance of ensuring quality rail services for both freight and passenger traffic.
- Transport Canada continues to monitor the situation to ensure all existing safety rules and regulations are being followed.
IF PRESSED
- The Government of Canada is working closely with VIA Rail and CN to identify a viable path forward. Canadians deserve to have an effective passenger rail service. Additionally, Transport Canada understands the importance of efficient and effective rail performance for both freight and passenger rail services and continues dialogue with all parties to find balance between these two priorities.
- I am aware of the ongoing litigation between two railway companies regarding operating restrictions in the Quebec City–Windsor corridor. Canada has not been named in the litigation.
- While I cannot comment on active litigation, I can tell you that I am committed to safe railway operations and addressing safety risks.