Janna Dewar

Via Rail's five-year sustainability plan aims to transform the company into a vehicle for change in Canada, focusing on a greener, more modern line. The plan seeks to reduce the environmental footprint, strengthen its role as a responsible carrier, and create lasting value for current and future generations. Key objectives include reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30% or more by 2030, training all employees on sustainability, implementing a responsible procurement policy, and establishing a zero-waste line in the corridor by 2025.

This business plan for VIA Rail outlines the organization's strategic direction to address challenges such as an aging fleet and operational constraints. Key strategic initiatives include the renewal of the fleet for the Quebec-Windsor corridor and the development of a high-frequency rail service connecting Quebec, Montreal, Ottawa, and Toronto. The plan aims to enhance mobility, accessibility, and service reliability for all Canadians, including Indigenous communities and individuals with disabilities, ultimately contributing to environmental sustainability, economic growth, and improved financial viability for VIA Rail.

This business plan details Via Rail Canada Inc.'s financial and operational projections for the period 2019-2023. It outlines operational and capital budgets, funding requirements, and projected financial outcomes including surpluses or deficits. The plan also tracks key performance indicators related to revenue, expenses, train operations, resource consumption, and employee attendance, reflecting the organization's strategic financial management and operational efficiency goals.

This Business Plan outlines VIA Rail Canada Inc.'s strategic direction, focusing on renewing and modernizing its rail fleets, potentially implementing a High-Frequency Rail (HFR) project, and restructuring long-distance services. Key objectives include enhancing service quality, safety, comfort, accessibility, and environmental footprint, alongside improving long-term access to stations and rail networks, fostering relations with host railway companies, and upgrading reservation systems to boost customer satisfaction and efficiency. The plan aims to secure a sustainable future for passenger rail services in Canada by addressing operational challenges and financial viability.

This corporate plan summary outlines VIA Rail Canada Inc.'s strategic direction for 2014-2018. The plan prioritizes safety, enhancing customer value through improved service quality, and ensuring efficient and economic management of public funds. Key strategic pillars include investing in infrastructure and rolling stock to improve operational reliability, punctuality, and service frequency, alongside fostering an engaged workforce and effective communication strategies. The overarching goal is to offer added value to customers and communities while reducing reliance on government funding.