CN recognizes and understands the concerns of citizens in Repentigny following the resumption of train service at the site of Sunday’s derailment. We want to reassure the community that safety remains our top priority.

Since the incident, CN employees and contractors have been working around the clock to safely restore the site and complete extensive repairs to the railway infrastructure.

Before a single train movement resumed, crews completely rebuilt the track and track bed. Additional work will continue over the coming days. In total, approximately 2,400 feet (apprx 750 meters) of track, and 2,100 tonnes of new ballast will have been put into the restoration once completed. The track was also resurfaced and all rail ties were replaced. A new public crossing is also being built and should be ready shortly.

The return of train service is being managed through a deliberate and phased process honed over years of experience and supervised by regulators. Trains are currently operating through the area at 10 mph (apprx 15 km/h), well below the regulated limit of 50 mph (apprx 80 km/h) for freight trains. They will continue to run at significantly reduced speeds while additional work, inspections, and testing are being completed. As the track continues to perform as expected, speeds will be gradually increased followed by rigorous engineering assessments, including specialized track geometry and rail integrity testing, as well as an inspection by the regulator before normal operating speeds will be restored.

The cause of the derailment remains under investigation both by CN and the TSB. The process for the investigation involves, amongst others, looking at train handling, the track, and mechanical factors. At this time, the investigation is focusing on track and mechanical issues. This can include but is not limited to events caused by weather, water, thermal expansion due to high temperatures, track geometry, mechanical parts such as wheels and drawbars, as well as other factors. While it can take some time, CN will be conducting additional inspections over and above the requirements of the regulator until cause is definitively determined. Safety is our core value and we will not compromise on this.

CN will continue working closely with the City of Repentigny, local officials and regulatory authorities throughout the cleanup and restoration efforts.

We appreciate the patience and understanding shown by the community and sincerely apologize for the disruption caused by this incident.

For questions or concerns, contact CN’s Public Inquiry Line at 1-888-888-5909 or CN Public Inquiry Line . Should you need to file a claim contact CN Public Inquiry Line