CANADA: National passenger operator VIA Rail has launched its 2026-29 accessibility Plan, developed with specialist partners and people with disabilities to make its network, digital tools and workplace increasingly inclusive.
VIA Rail Chair Jonathan Goldbloom said the plan ‘ensures that inclusive design principles are built into every major decision we make, whether related to digital services or fleet renewal’.
It is structured around strengthened priorities:
- integrating accessibility from the design stage of all major projects, including digital services, internal procedures and workplace environments;
- improving the experience of persons with disabilities through user-centred processes, ongoing staff training and sustained dialogue with the advisory committee;
- creating an inclusive and barrier-free workplace to ensure that all employees and candidates benefit from real equality of opportunity.
‘As Canada’s national inter-city passenger rail carrier, we have a responsibility to make transportation accessible to as many people as possible’, said VIA Rail President & CEO Mario Peloquin on December 3. ‘With unprecedented federal support and the guidance of our accessibility partners, we are delivering a travel experience that removes barriers and expands mobility for all Canadians.’
