(The Canadian Press circulated the following story on November 22.)
MONTREAL — Via Rail is standing by its purchase of 139 used rail cars from Britain and says they represent good value for the taxpayer and meet Canadian standards.
“The Renaissance cars, obtained at a fraction of the market price, 33 per cent of current costs for similar new rolling stock, represent good value for Canadian taxpayers now, as well as when they were purchased in 2000,” the company said in a news release Sunday.
“Renaissance cars fully meet all Canadian regulations and international standards of the industry.”
The statement was in response to a report in Saturday’s Journal de Montreal that said the cars, bought for $125 million, ended up costing the Crown corporation $40 million in repairs.
The report said the cars, made for a European climate, required extensive refurbishing after doors froze, hydraulic lifts jammed and doors flew open mid-trip at speeds of up to 100 km/h.
“Via is well aware that the introduction of any new product requires a normal period of adjustment,” the company said.
“Via is proud of the Renaissance car purchase.”