Train Service between Moosonee and Cochrane Cancelled as the Result of
Vandalism to Moose River Bridge

TORONTO , Dec. 7 /CNW/ - Ontario Northland's rail line between Moosonee and Cochrane is currently closed as a result of damage caused by an act of vandalism to our Moose River Bridge. The Polar Bear Express passenger train is cancelled, as are all freight services, until further notice. We apologize for this inconvenience to our customers.

Safety is our top priority. Crews, equipment and materials have been mobilized and we will be working as quickly as possible to make repairs and resume service as soon as it is safe to do so.

At this time, we anticipate that it will be several days before train operations can be resumed. We expect to publish an update as to the resumption of service on the afternoon of Wednesday, December 9, 2009 .

Passengers Updates

We expect to have an update on resumption of service on Wednesday, December 9, 2009 , after 12:00 p.m. (noon). We would ask our customers to visit our web site: www.OntarioNorthland.ca at this time for an update, or to contact us at 1.800.265.2356 or 705.272.5338.

Passengers with Tickets

Passengers holding tickets for travel this week are asked to contact our Passenger Services Division either by visiting one of our stations in Moosonee, Cochrane or Timmins, or by contacting us at 1.800.265.2356 or 705.272.5338, so that we can accommodate your needs.

Reservations

We will not be taking reservations until further notice. Again, we expect to have an update on resumption of service on Wednesday, December 9, 2009 , after 12:00 p.m. (noon). We would ask our customers to visit our web site: www.OntarioNorthland.ca at this time for an update, or to contact us at 1.800.265.2356 or 705.272.5338.

Background

Damage to the Moose River Bridge occurred when an individual set fire to a section of the bridge over the weekend, resulting in damage to railways ties and track. The subject has been arrested and is in OPP custody.

Ontario Northland

Ontario Northland, an agency of the Province of Ontario, was established in 1902 and is a recognized leader in creating prosperity in the North by providing innovative transportation and telecommunication solutions. Operating primarily in northeastern Ontario, Ontario Northland's enterprises include: the Northlander, Polar Bear Express and Dream Catcher Express passenger trains; rail freight services; motor coach scheduled and charter services; refurbishment services; and Ontera telecommunication services.

For further information: Beverly Martin, Chief Communications Officer, Ontario Northland, [phone] or 1-800-363-7512 ext. 265; cell: [phone]