Conservatives vote against passenger rail services

The future of VIA Rail passenger train service is threatened now that the Conservatives have voted against the NDP bill to protect vital rail links and their funding.

“The Conservatives continue to cripple our rail service despite the fact that passenger trains foster important economic ties, especially outside core areas,” said Bill C‑640 sponsor, MP Philip Toone‎ (Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine).

“Around the world, governments have realized having consistent and reliable passenger rail service is vital to success and profitability, and they are now thriving,” he added.

Bill C-640 would have protected VIA Rail funding and made it possible to set a minimum level of service for Canadians. In recent years, service has suffered alarming cutbacks due to a lack of Conservative engagement.

The NDP is not giving up and will continue to fight for the protection of passenger rail service across the country. Last year, with the support of thousands of Canadians, the NDP saved a passenger line serving municipalities between Rivière‑du‑Loup and Moncton.

“We have the means to provide reliable, sustainable train service throughout the country. An NDP government will protect this service, which is vital to our economy, to communities, and to the environment,” added Toone.