Working together to improve Canada-U.S. transport cooperation
TORONTO, Dec. 18, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, today met with the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Anthony Foxx, as part of ongoing discussions on shared transportation issues.
The Minister took the opportunity to talk about the important progress being made regarding several transportation issues affecting both Canada and the United States and discussions centered on the importance of harmonizing rail tank car standards. They also discussed trucking regulations and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Additionally, Minister Raitt raised the Government of Canada's concerns over the application of Buy America provisions on Canadian soil in Prince Rupert.
Transport Canada continues to work closely with stakeholders, including U.S. officials, to protect the health and safety of Canadians.
Quick Facts
- Earlier this year, Transport Canada began pre-consultations on an even more robust class of rail tank car, known as the "Class TC-140 tank car", designed specifically for the transport of flammable liquids such as petroleum crude oil and ethanol.
- Cooperation on transport issues is a key area of work under the Canada-U.S. Regulatory Cooperation Council (RCC). The RCC was launched in February 2011 by Prime Minister Harper and President Obama to better align regulatory systems on both sides of the border and to strengthen our economies and protect the safety and welfare of our citizens.
- This fall, Minister Raitt launched the Government of Canada's safety awareness campaign for UAVs. The national campaign will help ensure UAV users—both recreational and commercial—understand the rules of the skies and always think safety first.
Quote
"Our government remains committed to working closely with our partners in the U.S. to discuss emerging transportation issues. By strengthening ties between Canada and the U.S., we are building an even stronger, safer, and more modern transportation system for people on both sides of the border."
The Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport
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SOURCE: Transport Canada
Ashley Kelahear, Director of Communications, Office of the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, Ottawa, 613-991-0700; Media Relations, Transport Canada, Ottawa, 613-993-0055
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