Victoria Vancouver Island British Columbia - The recently elected provincial New Democrat Party (NDP) and Green Party (GP) government coalition in British Columbia has suddenly decided to release the $7.5 million grant that was originally promised by the Liberals back in 2012.
 
Along with matching funds from the Federal government a total of $15 million will now be available for upgrading the line.
 
VIA Rail passenger service was suspended on 18 Mar 2011 following a risk assessment on the poor condition of the line.
 
An unnamed spokesperson for the BC Ministry of Transportation stated their review of the estimated repair costs to the railway was completed in early March of this year thereby enabling the government to come to a decision about releasing the $7.5 million grant.
 
It is anticipated Premier John Horgan will be making a statement to the press shortly.
 
Green Party leader, Andrew Weaver, said, "Reinstated operation of the E&N is a win for the environment as it will remove cars from the Trans-Canada Highway thereby reducing carbon emissions. Road users account for about 71 percent of transport CO2 emissions, with railways making up less than 1.8 percent."
 
Author unknown.

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