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5/23/2022
Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra last week accepted the resignation of Via Rail Canada Inc. President and CEO Cynthia Garneau.
Garneau's resignation was effective May 20. VIA Rail’s leader since May 2019, she did not share her reasons for stepping down.
"After three wonderful years of diverse achievements, exciting challenges and enriching encounters, I leave VIA Rail with a sense of accomplishment," said Garneau in a prepared statement. "I had given myself the objective to obtain confirmation for the [High Frequency Rail] project, and with the procurement process now underway, my train has arrived at its destination. It will now be up to another driver to lead the organization through the next steps."
Alghabra thanked Garneau for her work "in contributing to the modernization of VIA Rail and adapting VIA Rail operations during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, while always ensuring the health and safety of employees and passengers."
VIA Rail Chair Francoise Bertrand also acknowledged Garneau’s contributions, particularly during the pandemic.
"She faced extraordinary challenges while never losing sight of our ambitious modernization program and the well-being of our employees," Bertrand said in a prepared statement.
Martin Landry, chief commercial affairs officer for the past eight years, "will ensure business continuity" at VIA Rail following Garneau’s resignation, Bertrand said.