WHEREAS the service provided by CN Rail has a significant impact on the viability of sawmills and other companies who use rail as a shipping method; AND WHEREAS communities are dependent upon CN Rail in promoting growth and economic development opportunities; AND WHEREAS sawmills and shipping companies are experiencing unsatisfactory levels of service from CN Rail wherein freight cannot be shipped threatening the operations of existing sawmills and other customers moving their goods on the rails, as well as restricting economic development opportunities: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Union of British Columbia Municipalities lobby the provincial and federal governments to conduct a review of the level of transportation services presently provided by CN Rail to ensure that the level of service meets customer demands.
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure The matter of railway service level in Canada has attracted national attention, with the federal government announcing a review of rail freight services in early 2008. The final terms of reference for the review were released August 2008. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will be undertaking consultations with economic sector stakeholders groups and preparing a provincial submission to the rail freight service review. Information on the review can be found at http:www.tc.gc.capolenacgacgbfreightterms-final.htm .
Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities A comprehensive review of rail freight service is currently underway to address complaints about railway service. The review will focus on the performance of stakeholders involved in the rail-based logistics system - primarily the railways, but it will also focus on shippers, ports and terminal operators. The review is being conducted in two stages. The first stage, which is currently underway, consists of analytical work to achieve a better understanding of the nature and extent of challenges within the logistics chain, with a focus on railway performance. The second stage will be led by a panel that will develop and consult on recommendations to address challenges identified. The panel will be established near the completion of the first stage. It is currently estimated that the review will be completed by the end of 2009. For further information regarding the review, you may wish to visit Transport Canadas website: www.tc.gc.capol enacgacgbfreightterms.htm