Transport Canada appoints a ministerial observer for train derailment in Repentigny

Crews are cleaning up a freight train that derailed in Repentigny, Quebec, on Monday, July 6, 2026. (Christopher Katsarov/The Canadian Press)

Transport Canada appointed a ministry observer on Friday to support the investigation being conducted by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada following a train derailment in Repentigny.

The ministry assured the public that it was closely monitoring the measures taken in the wake of last Sunday’s train derailment on the outskirts of a residential neighborhood.

Although no hazardous materials were spilled and no one was injured, 49 railcars derailed near homes along the railroad tracks around 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Transport Canada’s rail safety inspectors are monitoring the response by Canadian National Railway (CN).

“This includes conducting on-site inspections to verify compliance with safety regulations and speed limits,” Transport Canada stated in a press release issued early this evening.

Trains are currently operating in the area at a temporarily reduced speed of approximately 15 km/h, which is well below the regulatory speed limit of 80 km/h.

“This restriction will remain in effect until all necessary inspections, tests, and follow-up work have been completed to ensure the safe continuation of rail operations,” the ministry said.

Transport Canada also reiterated that it has “the authority to suspend operations or impose conditions at any time if there are safety concerns,” including by restricting operations as necessary.

CN had indicated that its crews had completely rebuilt the track and ballast before rail traffic resumed overnight from Tuesday to Wednesday. Additional repairs are also scheduled to be carried out over the next few days.

Once the work is complete, approximately 750 meters of track and 2,100 metric tons of new ballast will have been used for the restoration. A new railroad crossing is also under construction.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on July 10, 2026.