Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon announces new leadership appointments at VIA Rail and CATSA

The Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, announced today the appointments of Mathieu Paquette, as VIA Rail President and Chief Executive Officer, and Neil Parry as Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), each for a five-year term.

October 7, 2026    Ottawa, Ontario    Transport Canada

The Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, announced today the appointments of Mathieu Paquette, as VIA Rail President and Chief Executive Officer, and Neil Parry as Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), each for a five-year term.

Mr. Paquette brings extensive leadership experience, with over 25 years across the transportation, mining and manufacturing sectors, including serving as Chief Communication and Human Resources Officer at VIA Rail. He has served as interim CEO since February 2026.

Mr. Parry brings extensive organizational experience, with over 20 years at CATSA, where he has served as interim President and CEO since June 2025. Prior to that, he held other senior leadership positions such as CATSA’s Senior Vice-President and Vice-President, Operations.

“I would like to congratulate Mr. Paquette and Mr. Parry on their appointments. These talented leaders bring valuable experience and a commitment to serving Canadians and building a stronger, more connected transportation system. I look forward to the positive contributions they will make in their new roles.”

The Honourable Steven MacKinnon
Minister of Transport and the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

The Minister of Transport is responsible for one of the largest portfolios in the Government of Canada with 54 portfolio organizations, which include: