Resolution

WHEREAS Transport Canada is currently reviewing the Canada Transportation Agency’s mandate as the regulator that deals with rail service and rate issues;

WHEREAS the CTA is currently limited in capacity and authority to launch investigations and act on its own motion without approval from the Federal Minister of Transport;

WHEREAS captive shippers have expressed reluctance to access service and rate remedies out of fear of retribution from the rail carriers, or have signed confidential contracts preventing them from accessing these protections;

WHEREAS the rail system is critical infrastructure for the movement of goods and trade for the benefit of all Canadians;

BE IT RESOLVED that Transport Canada provide the Canada Transportation Agency the authority and resources to monitor the rail transportation system, proactively collect information from shippers about rail service, investigate issues as they arise, apply penalties, and make orders to ensure compliance with service standards and obligations set out in the Canada Transportation Act.