Winnipeg, MB -- Earlier this week, the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities announced the appointment of a facilitator to lead one of the key recommendations identified during the Rail Service Review.
“Good rail service is critical for moving Canadian commodities such as canola to export positions, and with more than 80 percent of canola exported as either seed, oil or meal, responsive rail service is always a high priority for farmers,” says Rick White, General Manager with the Canadian Canola Growers Association (CCGA).
“We’re very pleased that the Government of Canada has taken steps to implement the first of four key recommendations, and we look forward to working with Mr. Jim Dinning during the facilitation process.” As facilitator, Dinning will work with stakeholders to develop a template service agreement and streamlined commercial dispute resolution process for rail shipping.
The CCGA has strongly advocated for changes to rail service in Canada. “The appointment of a facilitator is an important step, and we look forward to future announcements about the remaining recommendations outlined in the Rail Service Review, including the tabling of legislation, the creation of performance metrics, and an in depth analysis of the grain supply chain and rail shipment related issues and solutions,” says White.
The CCGA represents 43,000 canola farmers on national and international issues that impact farm profitability and is a member of the Coalition of Rail Shippers.
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Contact:
Kelly Green, Director of Communications
Canadian Canola Growers Association
Phone: 204.789.8821
E-mail: kellyg@ccga.ca