Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to Kitchener representatives of the local branch of Transport 2000, notably George Bechtel and Mary Pappert.
Yesterday morning I had the pleasure of accepting letters from them which express concern for the maintenance of VIA Rail service to Kitchener and the potential impact its privatization may have in the area. Residents have long held the belief that its rail service is essential to the life of our community.
Clearly the local representatives have demonstrated an important role for ensuring VIA service to the area. Indicative of this was a recent promise from Terry Ivany, president of VIA Rail, assuring us of its continuation, which is excellent news for Kitchener.
While the Government of Canada proceeds with downsizing and streamlining, I am extremely encouraged by the efforts of Kitchener's local branch of Transport 2000. Much of what has been achieved thus far in retaining train service would not have been possible without its help.
Whatever the final outcome on the issue of rail service, I assure our friends at Transport 2000 that our combined efforts in both Kitchener and Ottawa will ensure for the future a viable and effective rail service to the area.