Via Rail CEO Highlights Chronic Delays on Montreal-Halifax Route Amid Modernization Efforts

Mario Péloquin emphasizes the need for collaboration with CN Rail to improve passenger train punctuality and infrastructure.

Via Rail's Montreal-to-Halifax train, known as the Ocean, consistently fails to meet its schedule due to infrastructure issues and freight train priority.
CEO Mario Péloquin calls for continued discussions with CN Rail and other partners to address these delays.
The federal government is urged to play a key role in negotiating improvements to the deteriorating tracks, especially between Campbellton and Moncton.
Despite delays, the Ocean transports 13,000 passengers annually, with plans to market it as an environmentally sustainable option using new trains in five years.
Via Rail's fleet, averaging 77 years old, is set for replacement with federal funding, adding to the $3 billion invested over the past five years.