Government of Canada invests in trade and transportation, continues to improve rail safety
MILTON, ON, Oct. 31, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, today addressed members of the Milton Chamber of Commerce to highlight Government of Canada investments in trade and transportation, and describe the measures undertaken by the department to address the recommendations made by theTransportation Safety Board in its final report on the Lac-Mégantic train derailment.
Framing transportation as a key tool to support our aggressive trade agenda, Minister Raitt outlined strategic investments made under the Gateways and Border Crossings Fund, the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative and the New Building Canada Plan, the largest and longest federal infrastructure plan in the country's history. Through this plan, the government is encouraging investments in infrastructure projects that contribute to economic growth, job creation and productivity. The federal government works with provinces, territories, municipalities and the private sector to provide funds to economically focused projects.
The Minister also noted the comprehensive review of the Canada Transportation Act, led by the Honourable David Emerson. This review will help ensure the legislation is current, efficient, and on pace with industry, and our transportation network continues to support Canada's continuing economic growth.
In addition, the Minister described the latest measures taken by the government to address the Transportation Safety Board's (TSB) recommendations stemming from its final report on the Lac-Mégantic accident. These measures, in addition to those the government has already taken, will better protect Canadians and their communities by further improving railway safety and the safe transportation of dangerous goods by rail.
Quick Facts
- Interested parties have until December 30 to provide submissions to the Canada Transportation Act Review Secretariat.
- New rail safety measures include improvements to train securement, the auditing of safety management systems, the classification of dangerous goods, and the training of railway employees.
- More than 750 businesses belong to the Milton Chamber of Commerce.
Quote
"Safety is a priority for our government, not only to protect people and communities, but also because it is important for our economy. Together, we can strengthen our transportation system and maintain a safe, secure, efficient and environmentally responsible transportation system that helps create jobs, promote growth and support Canadian communities."
The Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport
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SOURCE: Transport Canada
Jana Régimbal, Press Secretary, 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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