Via Rail ‘needs to improve its service’ despite solid management: auditor general

By Canadian Press on March 16, 2026.

A new report from Canada’s auditor general says Via Rail needs to improve its service, even as she gave solid marks to the Crown corporation’s management practices.

Karen Hogan says that over the past decade Via has failed to improve its on-time performance, which sank to a dismal 30 per cent in the first three months of 2025, potentially discouraging passengers from returning to the service.

The report notes that recent restrictions on train speed and frequency put in place by track owners and other partners have contributed to the tardiness.

Hogan also highlights weak points around risk management and calls for improvements to board governance and strategic planning.

However, the auditor general says the railway shows “good corporate management practices overall.”

Via has struggled financially in recent years, with operating costs more than double its revenue in 2024.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 16, 2026.

Christopher Reynolds, The Canadian Press

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