NEWS UPDATES | FEBRUARY 27, 2003
Transport Canada's Vision for Transportation Supports Passenger and Commuter Rail
Ottawa - The Association of Regional Railways of Canada (ARRC) welcomes the publication of "Straight Ahead - A Vision for Transportation in Canada" by Transport Canada and the introduction of Bill C-26 in the House of Commons by the Minister of Transport to amend the Canada Transportation Act accordingly. "This is an important initiative of needed reform to the Canadian transportation system that will support Canada’s economic and social development over the next several decades", said Bob Ballantyne, President of ARRC.
"Straight Ahead" addresses the role of passenger rail to help solve both environmental and urban congestion problems in a cost-effective way.
ARRC acknowledges VIA Rail Canada as an important player in providing efficient and environmentally sustainable options to Canadians and supports the Government’s commitment to establish VIA Rail’s mandate in legislation.
The Government has recognized that major problems exist for commuter and passenger railways in their commercial transactions with the Class I railways and proposes that these publicly-funded authorities have access to the Canadian Transportation Agency to adjudicate disputes. ARRC supports the Government’s position.
ARRC sees the Government’s proposal to give transit authorities the option to purchase lines scheduled for transfer or discontinuance by freight railways for net salvage value as a significant and very positive step forward.
ARRC is also pleased that Transport Canada will include passenger rail infrastructure as one of its high priorities for strategic investment.
"ARRC looks forward to the enactment of the provisions of Bill C-26 relating to passenger and commuter transportation that is such an integral part of the vision of "Straight Ahead" and commends the Minister and Transport Canada for this initiative", said Mr. Ballantyne.
Contact: Cindy Hick
(613) 726-7111
hick@arrc.ca
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