July 6, 2015 – Ottawa – Transport Canada
The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, issued today this statement on the second anniversary of the Lac-Mégantic derailment:
“July 6, 2013, is a date Canadians will not soon forget. The tragic derailment in Lac-Mégantic claiming 47 lives serves to remind us of the importance of having strict railway safety rules and regulations in place and what can happen when those rules are not followed.
“Safety is Transport Canada’s top priority. And in the wake of the accident, we took immediate, concrete action to further protect Canadians and maintain the safety and integrity of the Canadian rail system.
“We introduced even stricter rules for securing trains and we ordered trains carrying dangerous goods to slow down when travelling through highly urbanized areas.
“In May, we introduced a stronger, tougher tank car standard, the TC-117, for the transportation of flammable liquids in North America, further protecting communities in both Canada and the United States.
“We continue to meet with all of our partners and stakeholders with the common goal of enhancing railway safety.
“To the people of Lac-Mégantic, you continue to be foremost in our minds. This tragedy is a reminder of the importance of rail safety for you and for all Canadians.”
Zach Segal
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
613-991-0700
Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055
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