Via Rail review CN speed restrictions in passenger trains [Video]

Ottawa –

Via Rail is asking for a judicial review of the reasons why Canadian National Railway Co. has imposed speed restrictions that affect its new passenger trains. 

The Crown corporation said in a statement Wednesday that it’s seeking the review from the Federal Court because CN hasn’t provided any evidence or valid reasoning for the change.

“There is no evidence to suggest a safety risk associated with the operation of Via’s Venture trains at grade crossings,” Via said in the court filing.

It says the restrictions CN imposed on Oct. 11 are causing daily delays on Via Rail’s Quebec City-Windsor corridor, affecting thousands of passengers and damaging its reputation with travellers.

Via says CN did not follow the necessary procedure for the changes and it’s challenging the lack of transparency and fairness in CN’s approach.

CN spokeswoman Ashley Michnowski said in a statement that the company imposed the restrictions at rail crossings given the …