SASKATOON, Oct. 20, 2016 /CNW/ - As one of the world's largest exporters of agricultural and agri-food products, Canada needs a transportation system that provides stable and predictable access to international markets.
Today, the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, was joined by the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, for a roundtable meeting with grain sector representatives. The roundtable aimed to gather the views of the western agriculture sector on the Canada Transportation Act review and the development of a long-term agenda for transportation in Canada.
This roundtable, organized to hear additional views from producers, builds on engagement sessions held by Minister Garneau across the country to discuss the future of transportation, and on input received during roundtables Minister MacAulay held with over 20 grain sector groups in Winnipeg and Regina.
Quotes
"We understand the scope and importance of the grain sector, and that a strong rail-based supply chain system is essential so all Canadian producers and shippers can remain competitive in domestic and international markets. The input received today will serve as valuable information as we prepare to address the future of transportation in Canada."
The Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport
"The grain sector is a vital part of Canada's economy and it relies on an effective transportation system to reach markets around the world. We have had a number of dedicated roundtables in Western Canada to ensure we build a transportation system for the future that will increase the competitiveness of all grain supply chain stakeholders and put more money in the pockets of farmers."
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay
Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
Quick facts
- In April 2016, the Minister of Transport launched a public consultation with Canadians, stakeholders, Indigenous groups and provinces and territories to hear their views and discuss ideas to develop a long-term agenda for transportation in Canada.
- Western Canadian grain is a $20 billion industry.
- Over the past 10 years, half of all of Canadian grain production has been exported, averaging 41 million tonnes per year.
Additional links
- Webpage of the future of transportation in Canada consultation initiative
- Canada Transportation Act Review Report
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SOURCE Transport Canada
Delphine Denis, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, Ottawa, [email protected], 613-991-0700; Media Relations: Transport Canada, Ottawa, 613-993-0055, [email protected]; Guy Gallant, Director of Communications, Office of the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, 613-773-1059; Media Relations, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, 613-773-7972, 1-866-345-7972
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