After twice encountering a rudder travel limit system ECAM message the A319 Flight Crew refused the aircraft. Following the refusal an unprofessional public comment was made to the passengers by the passenger agent.

Narrative

During engine start we received the ECAM warning: AUTO FLT RUD TRV LIM SYS. Inop system: RUD TRV LIM SYS. We followed the ECAM procedure; however; it did not resolve the problem. Returned to gate for Maintenance. Maintenance cleared the logbook by performing a reset. Mechanic stated we made the right decision by returning to gate. During second pushback and upon starting second engine the same ECAM message recurred and we again returned to the gate. Maintenance tried to MEL the item; however; the entire system was inoperative so the Flight Crew refused the aircraft. Aircraft parts were not available to fix aircraft so an aircraft swap was performed.In addition; an assistant Chief Pilot was brought into the situation by the Captain; due to unprofessional comments made by the Passenger Service Manager in front of the First Class customers; after she made the following comment; 'THE CAPTAIN IS REFUSING A PERFECTLY GOOD AIRCRAFT.' This caused much alarm to our customers. The Captain suggested the Manager be counseled concerning ethical concerns and professionalism.