HERMON, ME, July 14, 2015 /CNW/ - Central Maine & Quebec Railway (CMQ) was dismayed to learn through the media of an unauthorized "inspection" of its tracks yesterday near Lac-Mégantic, Que.
With the exception of Transport Canada, CMQ has not authorized any third-party to inspect any portion of its railway. Walking near or around railway property is not only illegal, it is extremely dangerous. Trespassers pose a serious risk to themselves and to the safety of railway operations.
"We had train crews working in that very area yesterday; a live, active main track. That raises questions about the actual concern for safety and competence of the so-called rail 'expert' involved in this trespassing incident," said Ryan Ratledge, CMQ's Chief Operating Officer.
CMQ celebrated its first anniversary of operations in Quebec on June 30, 2015. Over the last twelve months, the company has invested more than $20 million in track safety and other infrastructure enhancements.
CMQ has further demonstrated its commitment to safety by volunteering to be the first Railway Association of Canada (RAC) member to undergo an RAC-led safety culture assessment. Through this process, all CMQ staff – management, supervisors and tradespeople – have been surveyed using a new safety culture assessment tool developed in consultation with Transport Canada's Railway Research Advisory Board. CMQ is also developing a plan to foster and maintain a positive safety culture.
CMQ continues to work closely with Lac-Mégantic Mayor Collette Roy-Laroche and her leadership team, and is committed to maintaining an open and transparent relationship with the municipality.
"We've pointed out before that the decay and neglect that took place on the railway occurred over several decades," said Ratledge. "The team that I work with has already made tremendous progress in transforming this railway and its culture into something we and the communities that we serve can all be proud of. But, we have a lot more work ahead of us."
SOURCE Central Maine & Quebec Railway
Image with caption: "Central Maine & Quebec Railway logo (CNW Group/Central Maine & Quebec Railway)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150714_C6538_PHOTO_EN_445446.jpg
Media contact: Gaynor Ryan, Central Maine & Quebec Railway, 207-848-4352
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