Canada MP introduced bill for VIA Rail to get preference on rails.

Much like the Amtrak delays on Class I lines. But the class I carriers always call the shots, when they are the
owners.

I recall reading back when MARC was CSX operated, the Maryland MTA website mentioned delays were often
beyond control, due to CSX dispatchers giving priority. Most commuter lines in North America (GO Transit/Metrolinx, NJT, MNCR, MBTA and others own their own lines).

I am less than well-educated on Canadian politics and law. But this raises a few questions:

1. Can it pass through parliament?
2. Is it legal? In other words, can you just fine CN? Or do they have to negotiate a new contract?
3. Would CN bite?
4. Is CN paid enough in tracakge rights? or would they just decline to re-up the contract?
5. What kind of legislation took passenger trains off CN/CP's hands? Did it require priority? Was there a trade such as relaxed regulation of tarrifs and services like the states has?
6. When CN was privatised was any of that incorporated in the legislation formally privatising the company?

I am very much in the dark on this complex issue in a foreign country. Penalties might be an answer, but they're probably better attempted in the private contracts between CN and Via than in legislation, unless CN has already declined. In that case, if there is no takings clause violations (is there something like the takings clause in Canada?) you might be able to do this. If it passes.