March 27, 2011

Update: VIA service on Montreal-Toronto and Ottawa-Toronto routes interrupted due to CN freight train accident near Cobourg

- Alternate transportation in place until end of day Monday -

MONTREAL - Due to an accident involving a Canadian National freight train near Cobourg, Ontario, earlier today, the rail line has been temporarily closed to rail traffic. VIA Rail Canada will not be able to operate its normal passenger train service on the Toronto-Montreal and Toronto-Ottawa routes, in both directions, until the rail line is reopened.

VIA will provide alternate transportation by motorcoach for passengers with existing reservations. No new bookings will be accepted for trains on either route at this time.

These measures are in place until the end of business Monday, March 28. VIA will issue a revised advisory as to expected return to normal service once those details are known.

VIA wishes to apologize for any inconvenience and for the expected delays this disruption may cause to its passengers. Customers wishing further information may check for updates at www.viarail.ca, or call 1 888-VIA RAIL (842-7245). Follow VIA on Twitter at www.twitter.com/@via_rail.

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