NDP calls for Transport Minister and CEOs to appear before committee regarding holiday travel disruptions

SMITHERS – On Wednesday, NDP Transport Critic Taylor Bachrach wrote to the Liberal chair of the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities calling for an urgent meeting regarding holiday travel disruptions.

"The issues over the holidays are part of a larger pattern of the federal Liberal government failing to stand up for Canadian passengers," said Bachrach. "Whether it was the situation involving VIA Rail or Sunwing or another airline, passengers did not receive the basic level of care they deserved. This is unacceptable. The Liberal government has a role to play in holding these companies accountable for failing Canadians."

In the letter, signed jointly with other Opposition MPs, Bachrach highlights the need for Transport Minister Omar Alghabra to appear and answer the committee members' questions and for the big CEOs of these companies to appear as well.

"It's not enough for the Liberal Minister to tweet that the situation was unacceptable," said Bachrach. "He's the minister charged with overseeing Canada's transportation system and has specific powers under legislation. If anyone can do something to protect passengers, it's him. Canadians deserve to know what steps he took during the crisis and plans to take in the future to protect passengers."

For years, New Democrats have urged Liberal and Conservative governments to stop protecting the profits of large airline companies and to protect the rights of passengers instead. The NDP will continue to fight for families to be protected when airlines delay or cancel their travel plans.