OTTAWA- This morning FCM's National Municipal Rail Safety Working Group met with Transport Minister Lisa Raitt regarding a series of new rail safety measures announced by the federal government. FCM President Brad Woodside issued the following statement regarding the announcement:
"FCM welcomes the series of rail safety measures announced today by Minister Raitt, which further the federal government's commitment to improve rail safety and the transportation of dangerous goods in Canada.
The changes to the Safety Management System regulations, in particular, will improve Transport Canada's ability to conduct robust safety inspections and enforcement. Along with the introduction of more stringent reporting of safety performance data, and enhanced tank car standards, these measures will collectively reduce safety risks to our cities and communities.
We look forward to continue to work in partnership with Minister Raitt and the federal government to ensure the safety of Canada's railways and the communities in which they operate."