OTTAWA (November 9, 2010)  –  Leon Benoit, Member of Parliament for Vegreville-Wainwright, is pleased that on November 1, 2010, the Government of Canada in partnership with VIA Rail announced an unprecedented offer for military personnel, veterans and their families of a 25 per cent year-round discount off the best available fare.

“Our Veterans and their families have made great sacrifices so that we can live in a democratic and free country” said Leon Benoit. “Veterans Week is a most fitting time to offer them this tangible and important proof of the respect and gratitude we owe them.”

Benoit explained that starting November 1st, the new offer applies to all classes of VIA service, including economy, business and sleeper. The 25 per cent discount off the best available fare has no route or date restrictions. “The Forces’ members and veterans who qualify may be accompanied by up to five additional family members who will be eligible for the discount provided they travel on the same trains, dates, and in the same classes as the Forces’ members of veterans” said Benoit. Proper identification will be required to be eligible for this offer, and some conditions may apply.

“Our Government is pleased to honour our Forces members by offering this exclusive year-round discount” concluded Benoit.  ‘This underscores the contributions members of Canada’s military and its veterans have made to our country since its earliest days.”