​​​​​​​​​Winnipeg, MB  --  Today’s introduction of the Fair Rail Freight Service Act bill by the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, and the Honourable Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food is an important milestone in balancing the commercial relationship between the railways and the 43,000 farmers who ship their canola overland by rail.

“The Canadian Canola Growers Association is pleased to see the inclusion of a number of important elements in Bill C-52, including the right to negotiate a service level agreement if commercial negotiations fail,” says Rick White, General Manager of the Canadian Canola Growers Association. 

“With over 85 percent of canola seed, oil and meal exported to more than 50 markets worldwide, effective and efficient rail service is critical to the success of farmers and our entire industry,” says White.  The railway is a critical link between our farms and our export customers. To fully capitalize on the new trade opportunities being pursued by Canada, shippers need this legislation to ensure Canadian agri-food products reach our customers in a reliable and timely manner.

“We appreciate the efforts of Ministers Lebel and Ritz in carrying through on their Government’s commitment to bring legislation forward that addresses the concerns of shippers,” says White. “We look forward to participating in the legislative process as this bill proceeds through Parliament."

The Canadian Canola Growers Association represents more than 43,000 canola farmers on national and international issues that impact farm profitability and is a member of the Coalition of Rail Shippers.

-30-

Contact:
Kelly Green, Director of Communications
Phone: 204.789.8821 
E-mail: kellyg@ccga.ca