Minister to meet with Via Rail over stranded passengers

Canada’s transport minister said he is determined to get to the bottom of a recent train delay that left Via Rail passengers stranded for about 10 hours in Quebec over the long weekend.

Pablo Rodriguez said he is meeting with Via Rail leadership this week.

“Passengers deserve better,” Rodriguez said Sunday on X.

Via Rail confirmed that passengers were stuck for 10 hours on Saturday when a train broke down between Montreal and Quebec City after experiencing two consecutive mechanical issues.

The company said no buses were available in the region to offer alternative transportation.

Electricity, air conditioning and washrooms were shut down at times to allow for repairs and coupling with another train, the company said.

But it insisted that passengers were offered beverages and snacks throughout the day, and that a meal was delivered on board with additional water in the evening.

The fire department was eventually called to help transfer passengers from one train to another, with passengers reaching their destination 10 hours late.

Via Rail said it is also investigating after an employee took away a passenger’s phone during this time, and appropriate measures will be taken following a review.

“We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that all passengers are treated with respect and dignity,” the company said in a statement Sunday.

It says it offers its deepest apologies for the inconvenience caused to passengers and will provide a full refund to anyone affected.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 1, 2024