Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Thank you to our witnesses from Via Rail for appearing before us today. It's very appreciated.
I, for one, use Via Rail services very frequently to come from Montreal to Ottawa, weekly, I would say. First I have to say that Via has always delivered exceptional client service. In fact, I'm sure, if you ask many Canadians who use Via Rail on a regular basis or even just from time to time, they've experienced exceptional customer service.
Past serious disruptions and situations often led to exceptional service, recovery and positive passenger feedback. I'm sure, if you look at your stats, they will concur with what I'm saying. This included timely and honest communication and giving passengers complementary food, water, beverages, blankets, etc.
Why did these things not happen pre-emptively over the Christmas holidays?