Statement by Minister Garneau in response to verdicts in the Lac- Mégantic trial

January 19, 2018      Ottawa, Ontario      Transport Canada

The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, issued the following statement in response to the verdicts that were rendered in the provincial trial on the tragic derailment in Lac-Mégantic:

“Today we take note of the jury’s verdicts in the Lac-Mégantic trial.

“Our sympathies are extended to the families and friends of the 47 people who lost their lives, and to the many others whose lives were forever changed by this tragic event.

“The families, and the entire community of Lac-Mégantic continue to have our full support.

“Rail safety remains my top priority, which is why my department has taken many steps to strengthen rail safety and continues this important work.

“This accident reminds us of the importance of having effective legislation and a rigorous enforcement regime for our rail transportation system, including the transportation of dangerous goods in order to ensure the highest level of railway safety in Canada.

"That is why I initiated a review of the Railway Safety Act last year in order to ensure that safety remains top of mind when operating our railways.

"In addition, last November, I announced a first step towards addressing fatigue management in the rail industry. We propose to move forward with changes based on the latest scientific evidence in order to best protect railway operators, travellers and those living close to rail tracks.

“Transport Canada will continue to closely monitor the safety of rail operations across Canada, and will not hesitate to take action in the event of non-compliance.

"Our objective is clear - to ensure that we take every possible step to ensure our railway transportation system is as safe as possible for Canadians."

Contacts

Delphine Denis
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
613-991-0700
Delphine.Denis@tc.gc.ca

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055
media@tc.gc.ca