(Montreal) The top executive of VIA Rail says the Government of Canada must consider establishing a passenger charter of rights comparable to the one currently in force for air travelers.

In an interview, VIA Rail President and CEO Mario Péloquin maintains that the federal government should move towards a charter that would guarantee train passengers compensation for long delays.

If the reason for the disruption occurs on one of Canada’s two main freight railways, on which VIA trains operate, they should pay, which would further encourage smooth operation, according to Mr. Péloquin. He also calls for rules that would give the state company’s passenger trains formal priority over freight trains, a privilege enjoyed by passenger rail carrier Amtrak’s cars in the United States.

Former Transportation Minister Omar Alghabra said last summer he was exploring measures to improve travelers’ experience with VIA Rail’s performance, including through a bill of rights.

During the quarter ending June 30, 62% of VIA Rail trains arrived on time, an improvement from the 53% observed a year earlier.

The Transport portfolio in the Government of Canada is now held by an MP from Montreal, Pablo Rodriguez.

Mario Péloquin rose to the top position at VIA Rail last June.