OTTAWA, ON - This morning Transport Minister Lisa Raitt announced the Government of Canada's response to the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB)'s final report and recommendations into the derailment of a Montreal, Maine & Atlantic Railway train on 6 July 2013, in Lac-Mégantic, Québec.
FCM President Brad Woodside issued the following statement regarding the announcement:
"FCM welcomes today's announcement by Minister Raitt of additional safety measures that respond directly to recommendations made by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada as part of its investigation into the Lac-Mégantic derailment.
These new safety measures directly address weaknesses identified by the TSB in terms of the rules for applying brakes and securing trains, as well as the oversight of Canadian railways.
Along with previous commitments to enhance emergency response assistance plans, mandate railway risk assessments and improve tank cars, today's measures reflect a comprehensive approach to improving the safety of our rail network, and we expect Transport Canada to continue with this approach in the future, including by requiring additional safety measures at high risk locations determined through risk assessments.
Rail safety and the transportation of dangerous goods remain critical concerns for Canada's cities and communities, and FCM will continue to work closely with Minister Raitt and the federal government to ensure the safety of our cities and communities."