December 29, 2005
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Operations |
| PRICEMASTER Update |
The latest version of the PRICEMASTER data files are effective and are available from download on the RAC public website.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the full version of the PRICEMASTER data file in ZIP (2.4MB)
Click here to download the PRICEMASTER in PDF (1.3MB)
Click here to download the short version of the PRICEMASTER data file in ZIP (1.3MB)
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December 9, 2005
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Member News |
| Transportation & Logistics Program Launched |
Today Rob Richie, Chief Executive Officer of Canadian Pacific Railway, lent his support to the launch of a leading transportation & logistics program at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and University of Calgary. Mr. Richie stressed that consistent growth in the volume of international trade requires efficient, cost-effective transportation and logistics will make the difference for Canadian businesses competing in world markets.
“Canada is not producing enough graduates with the skills needed to become leaders in transporataion and logistics” Mr. Richie said. “We need to raise awareness of the opportunities in this field. As we raise awareness, we must also make sure there are enough positions at post-secondary institutions for young people to learn the skills.”
The launch of the program is about addressing these issues.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the transcript of Mr. Richie’s speech in PDF (14 KB)
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December 8, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Photo Release: The First Safety and Environmental Awards from Railway Peers |
CPR, VIA Rail and Mackenzie Northern received the first safety and environmental awards from railway peers Wednesday. From the left, are Robert Taylor, who accepted on behalf of CPR; Gerald Gauthier, on behalf of MNR; Lori Hokan, VIA; Dan Dugas, Broadcast News; Bruce Burrows and Mike Lowenger, Railway Association of Canada.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the photograph in JPEG (630 KB)
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December 7, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Railway Industry Awards Presented For Environmental And Safety Performance |
Four Canadian freight and passenger railways were singled out by their peers Wednesday night for their outstanding initiatives to enhance the environment and improve their safety performance at work and in the communities where they operate.
The environmental awards were presented by Bruce R. Burrows, Acting President and CEO of the Railway Association of Canada, and the safety awards, by Mike Lowenger, Vice-President, Operations and Regulatory Affairs. The RAC represents the industry’s 60 freight and passenger railways in Canada.
Canada’s freight railways carried 343 billion gross tonne kilometres of freight last year,and the passenger operators, more than 59 million commuters and inter-city passengers. Intermodal traffic is the fastest growing segment of the business. Modern railways are increasingly fuel efficient – capable of moving one tonne of freight 165 kilometres on one litre of fuel.
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December 6, 2005
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RAC News |
| “Wuss” Or Not |
Many young people feel they’re indestructible. They simply can’t imagine anything really bad ever happening to them. That’s one reason why many of them take careless risks. They won’t get hurt. That’s for other people.
In fact, injury takes the lives of more young people than all other causes of death combined. SMARTRISK Heroes travels to high schools across Canada, trying to help young people see that a traumatic injury CAN happen to them but that they can avoid injury by taking smart risks. This hour-long presentation features concert-style music and lighting along with a fast-paced DVD that opens with action-filled shots of young people having fun and taking (smart) risks.
Recently, SMARTRISK added a powerful new vignette to its DVD: the story of 17-year-old Sean Fowler of Fort Erie, ON, who describes how he lost his left arm and leg to a train in 2004. The funding to produce this vignette was provided by Direction 2006, a coalition of groups working to reduce highway/railway crossing collisions and trespassing incidents by 50 per cent by 2006. CN, a coalition partner, is also a sponsor of the SMARTRISK Heroes show.
Sean speaks powerfully about his injury in an effort to help other youth make better choices. The vingette featuring Sean can be viewed online at smartrisk.railcan.ca. Direction 2006, Operation Lifesaver and SMARTRISK are grateful to Sean for telling his story and helping youth learn to make smart choices.
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December 5, 2005
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RAC News |
| United Nations Conference on Climate Change |
On December 3, at the UN Conference on Climate Change in Montreal , the Railway Association of Canada held a “side-event”. Mike Lowenger, Vice President of Operations and Regulatory Affairs provided the introduction and overview. Representatives from CP, CN, VIA Rail Canada, the United Transportation Union and the International Union of Railways then identified the considerable progress of the railway industry in controlling GHG emissions and the very positive outlook for the future.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the presentation titled "Canadian Pacific Railway: Addressing Climate Change" in PDF (565 KB)
Click here to download the presentation titled "The CN Story" in PDF (396 KB)
Click here to download the presentation titled "The Railway Emissions Achievement" in PDF (317 KB)
Click here to download the presentation titled "The Role of Passenger Rail in reducing GHGs" in PDF (130 KB)
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December 4, 2005
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RAC News |
| The Trading Dragon: Boosting Canada's Transportation Infrastructure to Accommodate the New China Syndrome |
China’s emergence as an economic superpower and hyper-trader demands new strategies, not just in trade policy but in managing the growing volume of goods entering, leaving and traversing Canada. Christopher Jones of the Railway Association of Canada writes, “At the same time that bulk resource exporters are looking to seize upon opportunities in China, Chinese exports of containerized merchandise are flooding our shores. Canada has only 1 percent of China’s export trade and is struggling to cope with the stresses and strains that recent traffic growth in containerized freight has imposed.” Here, Jones lays down a plan for the next stretch.
Other articles from Policy Options can be dowloaded from the Institute for Research on Public Policy at www.irpp.org
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Document(s):
Click here to download the article in PDF (58 KB)
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November 24, 2005
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RAC News |
| International Rail Safety |
Some 160 international delegates attended the 7th grade crossing workshop in Montreal this week to compare current information and share experiences. Among the speakers was Allison Smiley of Human Factors North who addressed visual aspects and the conspicuity/ effectiveness of grade cross elements.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the photograph in JPEG (669 KB)
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November 23, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Commuter Rail and Transit Security Announcement Welcomed by Industry |
The Railway Association of Canada welcomed today’s announcement of a new federal initiative to contribute to the security of commuter rail passenger and related systems.
“This is a very positive development that offers the potential to enhance an already secure environment for rail in Canada," said Bruce R. Burrows, Acting President and Chief Executive Officer of the industry association which represents 60 freight and passenger railways in Canada.
“In light of world events, security is an important issue for all transportation industries,” said Mr. Burrows. “Fortunately, the Canadian rail industry has an established tradition and expertise in security and policing". The larger railways maintain their own police forces and maintain a close liaison with public police and security forces.”
The RAC’s Security Working Group helps manage security issues on an industry basis and is used as a forum for sharing best practices and security information.
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November 23, 2005
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Member News |
| VIA Rail Canada launches new gift cards - Just in time for the Holidays |
VIA Rail Canada Inc. today launched its new gift cards to simplify gift giving for Canadian holiday shoppers.
VIA gift cards are available at all VIA stations in $25, $50 and $100 denominations as well as flexi value card, which is also re-loadable. The convenience and flexibility of gift cards make them an ideal gift for friends and family to experience the pleasure of train travel. Many students do not have a credit card. Now they can buy a flexi value VIA gift card and periodically re-load funds onto the card and use it to buy train tickets throughout their academic years away from home.
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November 18, 2005
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Member News |
| Canada's Rocky Mountaineer Train Wins a Top Honour at the 2005 World Travel Awards |
Rocky Mountaineer Vacations (RMV), owners and operators of Canada’s internationally acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train has won the prestigious World Travel Award as, “World’s Leading Travel Experience by Train.” The 12th annual World Travel Awards gala event was held in London's Royal Opera House last weekend and was attended by over two thousand tourism industry leaders from across the globe.
Fellow nominees for this award included The Blue Train (South Africa), Rovos Rail (South Africa), Great Southern Railway Ltd. (Australia), Palace on Wheels Inc. (India), Orient - Express Ltd. (U.K.), Orient Express (Peru).
This is the first time a Canadian company has won a World Travel Award in a train category. Executives from Rocky Mountaineer Vacations, North America’s largest privately owned passenger rail operator, were on hand to accept the award for its increasingly popular GoldLeaf Service presented between Vancouver, British Columbia and Banff, Alberta.
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November 16, 2005
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Member News |
| Children Enjoy Ride Aboard Santa Claus Express |
More than 1,500 children enjoyed a train ride to the North Pole and a visit with Santa Claus, as they traveled aboard Ontario Northland’s Santa Claus Express this weekend.
The Santa Claus Express made stops in Englehart, Kirkland Lake and Swastika, Ontario on Saturday, and in the Tri-Towns, Latchford and Temagami, Ontario on Sunday.
In total, the train is expected to welcome more than 5,000 children and make stops in 14 northeastern Ontario and northwestern Quebec communities over four weekends in November and December.
The Santa Claus Express is operated by Ontario Northland, in partnership with the Ontario Northland Benefit Association, three employee unions, local community groups and volunteers.
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November 12, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| Ontario Northland Railway & The Railway Association of Canada (RAC)Working Together |
A Railway Emergency Response Training Course was held in Moosonee, Ontario this week.
The course consisted of 2 - 3 hours of classroom instruction which included basic emergency response procedures to be followed at a railway incident including “do’s and don’ts”, safety concerns, communication and damage assessment.
The ONR gave instruction on how where to look for and how to read train consists and shipping documents.
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November 10, 2005
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Member News |
| Rail initiative to benefit Katrina victims in time for Christmas |
As one of the most trying years for weather related disasters comes to a close, a number of Ottawa area organizations are combining to deliver a massive Christmas aid package by rail to Katrina ravaged Louisiana and Mississippi. The Kiwanis Club of Nepean together with CN, Ottawa Central Railway and Rideau Bulk are preparing to send a specially stocked railway boxcar to the deep south.
“It’s been a difficult year for hundreds of thousands of people from weather related tragedies this year,” says Kiwanis Club member Chris Maziarski. “With some generous donations of logistics support, we feel we can best assist the rebuilding process following Hurricane Katrina.”
CN has provided the boxcar and Rideau Bulk has donated pre-loading storage in two trailers at Ottawa Central Railway’s Walkley Yards.
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November 8, 2005
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Miscellaneous |
| Do you see what I see at OC? |
OC Transpo has adopted an interesting approach to promote security. The new poster has been affixed in Ottawa's Transit Stations, up on bus and train overhead ad racks, as well as inside transit facilities. Click here to see it.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the Campaign Bus Card in JPEG (291 KB)
Click here to download the Campaign Poster in JPEG (514 KB)
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November 1, 2005
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Member News |
| The snow train to Jasper: VIA Rail Canada's signature winter vacation Packages are as Exhilarating as the Rocky Mountain Air |
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow... and hop aboard the Snow Train to Jasper, VIA Rail's wintertime version of its flagship Canadian service. Winding through the breathtaking Canadian Rocky Mountains, this classically romantic, once-in-a-lifetime rail journey delivers passengers to Jasper, Alberta, and its welcoming, luxurious resorts. A supreme winter-weather setting, Jasper offers countless outdoor activities and, once inside, impeccable Rocky Mountain hospitality. In all, a vacation including VIA's Snow Train to Jasper provides enough vistas to give even the most amateur of photographers a chance at a masterpiece, so you won't want to forget your camera.
The Snow Train to Jasper features VIA Rail's Silver & Blue Class aboard the legendary Canadian, which this year celebrates its 50th year of operation. Silver & Blue Class passengers can choose from premier-level private or semi-private sleeping compartments with cozy down duvets, plump pillows, thick towels and a shower kit.
The panoramic Dome cars, a signature feature of the Canadian, provide 360-degree views of Western Canada's magnificent landscape. Two lounges, the Bullet Lounge and the Mural Lounge - so named for their Collection of Canadian art - are ideal spots to enjoy a refreshing cocktail and friendly conversation. In addition, the Skyline Car features books, video, board games, and an Activity Coordinator who points out scenic highlights for passengers en route in addition to organizing activities and other entertainment options for passengers.
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November 1, 2005
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RAC News |
| RAC Railway Trends 2005 Available Online |
This is the Railway Association of Canada’s 13th edition of Railway Trends, an annual report card on the performance of the Canadian freight and passenger railway industry. The publication is a rolling 10-year overview of financial and statistical results, reflecting all aspects of our industry. Virtually all Canadian railway operators are represented – the Class 1’s, regional freight companies, short lines, intercity passenger, commuter rail and the tourist train services.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the Railway Statistics 2005 in MS Excel - XLS (259 KB)
Click here to download the Railway Trends 2005 publication in PDF (355 KB)
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October 31, 2005
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Member News |
| The Santa Claus Express Is Back On Track |
Ontario Northland's 2005 Santa Claus Express is back on track! Thousands of children from communities throughout Northeastern Ontario and Northwestern Quebec will be able to ride the train to the North Pole for a visit with Santa Claus thanks to a unique and cooperative arrangement between Ontario Northland, the Ontario Northland Benefit Association and three employee unions.
"We're very excited to be able to run the Santa Claus Express this year and offer children throughout the region an opportunity to ride the train and visit with Santa Claus," said Steve Carmichael, President and CEO of Ontario Northland. "I'm very proud of the way the employees of Ontario Northland have rallied around the Santa Claus Express to make sure that it runs this year. It's a testament to our commitment to the communities in which we live."
The Santa Claus Express runs in 13 communities across Northeastern Ontario and Northwestern Quebec, on weekends in November and December and is operated by Ontario Northland in partnership with local community groups and volunteers. To date, 11 of these communities have confirmed their intent to participate again this year. Nearly 5,000 children enjoy their train ride to the North Pole and their visit with Santa Claus each year.
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October 28, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| 2005 Inductees To Railway Hall of Fame |
Canadian railway employees have been recognized as heroes and were inducted, among others, into the Canadian Railway Hall of Fame today. The wartime railroaders were praised for their incredible feats of bravery and round the clock contribution to the war effort in this, the Year of the Veteran as enlisted men and women, and for moving troops and materiel across Canada, to ports and overseas.
“The inductions are part of a series of annual events and activities that showcase the role that freight and passenger rail plays in Canada’s economy,” said Bruce R. Burrows, Acting President and CEO of the Railway Association of Canada.
The virtual Hall of Fame was created in 2002 with the support of the RAC’s 60 freight and passenger railways, communities, museums, corporate sponsors and the public at large.
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October 25, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| Toronto Hazmat Conference |
The Toronto Fire Department hosted its 11th Annual Toronto Hazmat Conference October 19-21. Among the presenters was Andy Ash, RAC Manager, Dangerous Goods who with, Scott Christon from Hulcher Services delivered a seminar entitled “Railway Emergency Response”.
This seminar covered topics such as regulatory requirements, documentation, safe and disciplined approach to an incident, dangers at a derailment, incident command, tank car nomenclature and damage assessment. These topics were reinforced with a “hands-on” visit to a derailment involving railway tank cars at the Toronto Fire Department Special Operations training facility.
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October 24, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| Pembroke TransCAER® |
On Saturday October 22 Kevin McKinnon, RailAmerica and Andy Ash, RAC delivered a TransCAER presentation in Pembroke, Ontario to Fire Department personnel from: Pembroke FD; Whitewater FD; Petawawa FD; Douglas FD; Laurention Hills FD; Horton FD; Tri-Township FD; and Renfrew FD.
An overview of the Ottawa Valley Railway was given followed by a presentation on how to approach an incident involving dangerous goods and what emergency responders can expect from the railways. The group was also given instruction on how to read a train consist and shipping documents. The Operation Lifesaver/D2006 video “Live to Help Another Day” was screened and the day was completed with a visit to the OVR in Pembroke to look at actual railway tank cars.
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October 21, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Federal Investment Will Help Fast Track Rail Improvements |
Canada’s railways said the federal government’s capital investment of nearly $600 million announced today will help fast track railway and related port infrastructure in British Columbia and points east to enhance Canada’s role as a preferred trading partner with China. It will also move more containerized traffic and bulk commodities overseas to and from central Canada and across the Prairies by rail as the two countries double their trade over the next five years to $60 billion annually.
Bruce R. Burrows, Acting President and CEO of the Railway Association of Canada, said: “The Federal funds to be spent on Canada’s international trade routes, coupled with the railways’ own operational and capital spending plans, will help them cope with their customers’ significant growth in overseas trade.”
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October 20, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Airchime inducted into the Canadian Railway Hall of Fame |
Locomotive horn manufacturer Airchime of Langley, B.C. was inducted into the Canadian Railway Hall of Fame in Montreal recently. Shown are, from the left, Roger Cameron, Vice-president of the Hall of Fame and Director, Public Affairs, Railway Association of Canada; Gord Patterson, President of the Canadian Association of Railway Suppliers, and Bill Challenger, President of Airchime.
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Click here to download the photograph in JPEG (1.3MB)
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October 18, 2005
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RAC News |
| Fall 2005 New Interchange |
The railways were part of the creation of the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan, and they are an important part of their future. The story is traced in this issue of Interchange magazine, and a wide-ranging package of other subjects. The 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War feature addresses the massive efforts by the railways and the nations to move the men and materials needed half a world away. The Quebec Railway Corporation properties in the Maritimes, Quebec and Ontario are playing an important in their local communities. That is especially true with the story on forest products – part of the new series in Interchange on the commodities moving by rail. And if that’s not enough to whet your appetite, check what’s on track for expansion of light rail and urban transit in Ottawa!
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Click here to download the fall edition of Interchange in PDF (5.1MB)
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October 13, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| More TransCAER Activities in Eastern Canada |
CBNS Railway owned by Rail America in Concert with the Railway Association of Canada held TransCAER information sessions at the Stellarton, NS. Fire hall on September 17, 2005 and consisted of two sessions with local emergency responders from that region.
CN Railway in Concert with the Railway Association of Canada utilized CN 911 Safety Training Tank Car to conduct TransCAER information sessions on September 28, 2005 for a tree day period with local responders (Fireman) and employees from Hydro Technologies Canada Inc.
During both events, the objective was for local responders to learn about the safety aspects of the railway industry and how they are prepared to respond to an incident if it does occur. These sessions includes the following topics such as Railway Emergency Response Plan, railway wayside detectors, locomotive safety features, tank car safety features & nomenclature, documentation (shipping papers and train consist), identifying dangerous goods products, how to obtain information once on site, marshalling, roles and responsibilities of RTC personnel and train crews, jurisdiction on site, railway resources, Canutec & Chemtrec, etc.
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October 11, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| Transport Canada Advisory Notice on Bunker C Fuel Oil |
Please see the attached Advisory Notice issued by Transport Canada regarding an issue involving Bunker C fuel oil that is loaded hot into railway tank cars and the potential for having to be classified as Dangerous Goods.
The RAC Dangerous Goods committee advises it’s member railways that if they have customers that ship products such as these and if they have any concerns regarding the products’ classification in transport, to speak to that customer or the RAC DG team representative. “
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Click here to download the advisory in PDF (11 KB)
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September 23, 2005
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RAC News |
| Canadian Transportation Awards winners announced |
Transport Minister Jean-C. Lapierre, along with David J. Johnstone, president of the Transportation Association of Canada, today announced the winners of the 2005 Canadian Transportation Awards. The awards program recognizes leadership, excellence and achievement in all modes and segments of the transportation sector.
The winner's included Mr. Dan Di Tota, the national director of Operation Lifesaver, a national public education program sponsored by the Railway Association of Canada and Transport Canada, received this award for his work on this national program. Its goal is to reduce the needless loss of life, injuries and damages caused by collisions at highway/railway crossings and train/pedestrian incidents. His leadership on this initiative, includes the development of a mobile classroom which travels around the country; training packages for emergency responders, school bus drivers and professional truck drivers; and a community trespass prevention guide.
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September 20, 2005
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Member News |
| Inaugural Voyage of the Dream Catcher Express |
The inaugural voyage of the Dream Catcher Express, an exciting train
excursion between North Bay and Temagami, will take place on Thursday,
September 22, 2005.
A brief ceremony will be held at 9:30 a.m., prior to the train's departure.
Ontario Northland's Chair, Ted Hargreaves, and President, Steve Carmichael,
will be joined by Anthony Rota, MP Nipissing-Timiskaming, Jason Corbett
from the office of Monique Smith, MPP Nipissing and Vic Fedeli, Mayor, City
of North Bay, along with representatives from the North Bay Chamber of
Commerce and the Almaguin Nipissing Travel Association, for this event.
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September 20, 2005
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RAC News |
| NBSR Conductor Ron Short recognized for saving a life |
Last week, at Operation Lifesaver’s annual safety conference, national and international delegates learned of an outstanding act of heroism. The round-up of the 2005 Rail Safety Week activities included details on the New Brunswick Operation Lifesaver Committee’s presentation of a Certificate to New Brunswick Southern Railway Conductor Ron Short.
In the fall of 2004, Mr. Short had climbed out onto the knuckle of a moving caboose to save a teen walking toward the train with his head down. The youth was wearing a radio headset and didn't hear the train or its warning horn signals. Mr. Short kicked the boy in the chest, driving him off the track just before he would have been struck by the train. He was a little bruised and scraped but not badly hurt. Without Mr. Short's intervention, the boy would certainly have been seriously injured or killed.
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Click here to download the photograph of Mr. Short being presented a Certificate in JPEG (236 KB)
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September 16, 2005
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Member News |
| Windsor and Hantsport Railway Alco Fleet for Sale |
Windsor and Hantsport Railway announced yesterday that their Alco fleet is for sale. The fleet includes 6 units which are in daily service, 7 units that are good for parts, and additionally an inventory of parts and specialized tools.
The railway company recently acquired newer locomotives and the Alco fleet has been designated as surplus to their needs.
Expressions of interest will be accepted until close of business October 13, 2005.
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Click here to download the detailed descriptions (with photos) of the fleet in PDF (2.2MB)
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September 16, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| RAC Creates New Rail Safety And Environment Awards |
The Railway Association of Canada has launched two new awards to officially recognize the Canadian railway industry’s promotion of rail safety and its protection of the environment. The annual RAC Environment Award and the Safety Award will also motivate the industry to adopt better working and operating practices, and increase the public’s awareness of Canada’s railways’ safe and environmentally-friendly practices.
Only qualitative aspects of proposals will be considered, said Bruce R. Burrows, Acting President and CEO of the RAC, so projects from both big and small railways are eligible. Originality, cost effectiveness and exportability to other operators are some of the criteria that the RAC will look at when selecting the best safety and environment initiatives of the year.
Railway members are invited to submit an application in either or both categories implemented by their company, employees, customers, suppliers or any other stakeholders identified by the member. The 2005 awards will be presented in Ottawa in December.
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September 13, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Community Safety Train Was a Success |
Friday September 9, 2005 was a special day on the Lakeland & Waterways Railway (LWR). As part of the celebration of Alberta’s Centennial, the LWR operated a “community safety train” from Edmonton to Radway, Alberta – providing more than 300 students and teachers from local schools with an opportunity to learn about Operation Lifesaver and other railway safety initiatives.
“Our goal was to promote to our younger guests a better understanding of what the railway industry does, and most importantly our desire that they remain safe around railway tracks,” said Tim Husel, General Manager of the LWR. “We had a great response from all involved, and if one person who attended now thinks twice about trespassing or racing a train at a crossing, our efforts will have been successful.”
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September 7, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Photo Release - Brockville Public Awareness |
Dennis Gleason, Brockville Transit, CN Police Cst. Sam Masanotti, Brockville Police Sgt. Doug Locke and VIACOM Outdoors increased public awareness of the need for safety around trains at the start of school, and year round.”
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Click here to download the photograph in JPEG (1.5MB)
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August 30, 2005
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Member News |
| Ride the Dream Catcher Express |
Members of the media are invited to ride the Dream Catcher Express
“preview” train on Thursday, September 15, 2005, and to experience various
activities upon arrival in Temagami.
The Dream Catcher Express, an exciting train excursion between North Bay
and Temagami, will offer you, as a passenger, a variety of unique
experiences including the romance of rail travel, vibrant fall colours and
a sampling of aboriginal culture.
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August 26, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Wayside Horn Study Under Way In Saguenay |
The whistle of a train approaching a crossing may disturb neighbours in communities near railway tracks. But if all goes well with wayside horn technology testing in Saguenay, Que., communities may be able to have more peace and quiet and still be safe at highway-railway crossings.
Transport Canada’s Transportation Development Centre (TDC) began site testing earlier this summer for its wayside horn pilot project. “The research project began in early December of last year, and is aimed at assessing the safety merits of the wayside horn,” says Anthony Napoli, TDC’s project officer.
“At the end of this project, we hope to have a better understanding of how effective the wayside horn is in alerting grade-crossing users, while reducing community noise levels. We also hope to have a better understanding of how well these units hold up in winter,” he said.
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August 18, 2005
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RAC News |
| Direction 2006 - The latest phase of the national campaign has been launched |
The latest phase of the national campaign to raise safety awareness along Canada’s railways by Direction 2006 and community, industry and government partners has just been launched in Halifax, Quebec City and Montreal. It is now being rolled out across the country. The billboards and transit shelter posters use space donated by Viacom Outdoor, and complement dynamic radio and television public service announcements that have aired more than 25,000 times. The program is helping reduce crossing and trespass incidents significantly even though highway and railway traffic is increasing.
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Click here to download the billboard poster in JPEG (42 KB)
Click here to download the transit shelter poster in JPEG (74 KB)
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August 15, 2005
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Member News |
| Northern Alberta Centennial Train |
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the province, the Northern Alberta Centennial Train committee has announced the operation of 10 special railway excursions that will be open to the public in early September.
“We are very pleased to be able to offer a unique and entertaining experience for the public by operating special passenger train rides at selected locations over the September long weekend and the following weekend”, said Don Gillespie, President of Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions, a major sponsor of the event. “Through the support of the Alberta Lottery Fund, the Alberta Pioneer Railway Association, Mackenzie Northern Railway, and Lakeland & Waterways Railway, passenger trains will again roll on portions of the former Northern Alberta Railways lines for the first time in more than 30 years.”
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August 12, 2005
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Miscellaneous |
| “Along These Lines” video production celebrates 100 years of history in central Alberta. |
The Canadian Northern Society is pleased to announce the premier of its newly-released video production known as “Along These Lines.” This 18-minute production celebrates 100 years of history in the communities of Camrose, Meeting Creek, Stettler, and Big Valley, Alberta – and focuses on the heritage preservation activities of the Canadian Northern Society in the area.
“We are very excited about the opportunity to show this excellent production at the upcoming Camrose Founders Days event on Saturday August 20, 2005 at the Camrose Railway Park,” remarked Glenys Smith, Chairperson for the Canadian Northern Society. “Along These Lines features historical vignettes and photographs that will be of interest to visitors on our special Founder’s Day weekend that salutes the railway’s contribution to Camrose.”
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August 10, 2005
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Member News |
| Ontario Northland Appoints New VP Passenger Services |
The Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Cheryl Sutton as its new Vice President Passenger Services, effective Monday, August 8, 2005.
“Cheryl has been with Ontario Northland for 20 years and has an extremely strong track record,” said Steve Carmichael, President and CEO of Ontario Northland. “She has tremendous credentials and I am confident in her ability to lead the passenger services division of Ontario Northland.”
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August 10, 2005
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Member News |
| VIA Rail's student savings make the grades |
With back-to-school sales beginning, students are budgeting their hard-earned summer funds with a year full of activities in mind. Students of all ages can take advantage of savings and fare discounts available with VIA Rail Canada throughout the school year. With discounts ranging from 35-50%, and plenty of departures from university/college towns served by VIA's Windsor-Québec City Corridor services, travelling by train makes the grade.
Here are a number of ways students can take advantage of VIA savings to travel.
Students can use their ISIC card, (International Student Identification card) available at any VIA Rail station or Travel CUTS location, to obtain discounts on train travel with no service charges or advance purchase required. To purchase an ISIC card, students must provide proof of full-time status, which can be obtained from the administrative offices of colleges, universities and high schools.
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July 25, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| 2005 TransCAER Activities, Eastern Canada |
Over the course of a 5 week period in June & July, the Safety training tank car CCPX 911 owned by the Canadian Chemical Producers Association was utilized by the following hosting companies Erco Worldwide, Chemin de fer Québec Gatineau, Chemin de fer de Matane et du Golf Inc., and Celanese Imulsions Inc. in concert with the Railway Association of Canada.
Over that time period mentioned above, a total of 18 presentations occurred at the following locations; Buckingham, Mirabel, Terrebonne, Trois Rivières, Québec, Mont Joli et Amqui.
175 participants from over 28 municipalities as indicated below took part in those sessions represented by Local Responders (Fire & Police Dept.), Environment Quebec (Inspectors), and employees from ERCO Worldwide, Celanese Imulsions and the CCPA.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the activities brochure in PDF (551 KB)
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July 22, 2005
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RAC News |
| Summer Interchange |
The Summer edition of Interchange tells the surprising story of the role of railways in the Canadian agri-food industry and it’s importance to the Canadian economy. It provides details of new ownership of the Electromotive-Motive Diesel (EMD) Inc., and how a joint partnership between the Ottawa Central Railway and Superior Propane is helping both companies to prosper. Find information about the 7th World Congress on Railway Research, and celebrate the 50th anniversary of two very special trains with VIA Rail. Also, CN’s new executive vice-president of operations, Ed Harris, talks about how he views the success of the railway. We see the challenges ports and railways face as Asian imports and exports continue to boom. This edition includes the regular passenger progress and news features, and demonstrates the importance of safety, through the events of National Rail Safety Week. Read on to find details of a burgeoning, changing industry!
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Document(s):
Click here to download the Interchange publication in PDF (4.9MB)
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July 22, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| World-Class Research Will Get Montréal Showcase Next June |
Some 600 world leaders in railway research and technology development will gather in Montréal next year to share ideas and discuss ways of tackling technical problems facing passenger and freight train operators.
The occasion will be the 7th World Congress on Railway Research scheduled for June 4-8, 2006 at Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth. Closing date for research paper abstracts is the end of this month, July 31. Accepted abstracts will be confirmed by Dec. 15, 2005. The closing date for final papers is next March 15, 2006.
Roy Allen, chair of the international organizing committee, and president of the Association of American Railroads’ Transportation Technology Center Inc. in Pueblo. Colo. said: “Having the conference in North America this time will shift the focus of the bi-annual event somewhat. It will look more closely at the freight-based railways of Canada and the United States, which is different than in Europe and Japan, where the railways have been primarily involved in passenger transportation.”
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July 18, 2005
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RAC News |
| 2004 Annual Report |
Canada’s railways, and their partners, face unprecedented challenges and growth opportunities not seen for decades. It has required extensive, open discussion, cooperation and trust between people, companies, levels of government and institutions not always known for those qualities. The process has started to produce results that will be good for Canada’s economy, good for society, good for shippers and receivers, and good for the nation’s freight and passenger railways.
The results will include more capacity, infrastructure upgrades, and, in due course, greater fiscal competitiveness with other countries and other modes. Railways will become safer, more reliable, and more secure than they already are. They will haul more people and freight than they already do. And they will help society reduce congestion and pollution more than they already have.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the annual report in PDF (1.7MB)
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July 14, 2005
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Miscellaneous |
| Terrorism, Transit and Public Safety - Evaluating the Risks |
This paper evaluates the overall safety of public transit, taking into account all risks, including recent terrorist attacks. It indicates that transit is an extremely safe mode, with total per passenger-mile fatality rates approximately one-tenth that of automobile travel. It is important for individuals and public officials to avoid overreacting to terrorist threats in ways that increase overall danger. Transit terrorism would cause more total casualties and harm to society if individuals respond to attacks by shifting from public transit to less safe modes, or if decision makers respond by reducing support for public transit.
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Click here to download the report in PDF (106 KB)
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July 7, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| RAC Instructions DG-1 and DG-2 Released |
The RAC Dangerous Goods Committee has released the latest revision of RAC Instructions DG-1 and DG-2 effective June 30, 2005
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Document(s):
Click here to download the DG-1 Circular in PDF (131 KB)
Click here to download the DG-2 Circular in PDF (100 KB)
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July 5, 2005
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Operations |
| Guide to Railway Charges for Crossing Maintenance and Construction |
The Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) recently published a guide which replaces as of July 1, 2005, the Schedule A Directives, developed to assist the railways and road authorities, utility companies and landowners, by providing the CTA assessment of rail costs and setting a consistent, nation-wide rate structure for work performed by railway companies. This guide may be used by Canadian federally-regulated railways when charging for work performed at crossings, crossing warning systems, or for any other crossing-related work either agreed to by the parties or authorized by an order of the Agency.
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Click here to download the guide in PDF (193 KB)
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July 4, 2005
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Operations |
| PRICEMASTER Update |
The latest version of the PRICEMASTER data files are effective and are available from download on the RAC public website.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the full version of the PRICEMASTER data file in ZIP (2.4MB)
Click here to download the PRICEMASTER in PDF (1.3MB)
Click here to download the short version of the PRICEMASTER data file in ZIP (1.3MB)
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June 30, 2005
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Miscellaneous |
| Railway Safety to be Improved Across Canada |
Transport Minister Jean-C. Lapierre today announced that the Government of Canada will provide more than $11 million to improve safety at 80 railway crossings across Canada. Since 1994, Transport Canada has committed more than $100 million to such projects throughout the country.
"Since the grade crossing program was introduced in 1994, accidents, fatalities and injuries have decreased at rail crossings," said Mr. Lapierre. "This funding will allow us to continue to work with rail companies and communities to improve the safety of rail crossings for motorists and pedestrians throughout Canada."
Under Transport Canada’s grade crossing improvement program, eligible railway crossings are either upgraded, relocated or closed. Improvements may include installing flashing lights and gates, adding gates or extra lights to existing systems, linking crossing signals to nearby traffic lights, modifying operating circuits, or adding new circuits or timing devices. The department finances up to 80 per cent of the total cost of the improvements, with the balance provided by the railways, municipalities or provinces and territories.
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June 28, 2005
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Member News |
| CN Officers Invested in Police Order of Merit |
CN Chief of Police Serge Meloche was invested as an Officer in the Order of Merit of the Police Forces, and CN Police Cst. Frank Morgan, Concord, ON., as a Member of the Order recently by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, Governor General of Canada. The presentations took place at the fourth investiture ceremony at Rideau Hall when 45 Canadians received their insignia of membership.
Chief Meloche has had an exemplary and diversified career, making significant contributions to the Montreal Police and CN Police. He has championed change, ethics and community policing through his leadership for the betterment of all Canadians and international policing. Chief Meloche is also co-chair of the Enforcement committee of Direction 2006, a government, industry, community public safety initiative that saves lives along Canada’s railways.
Constable Frank Morgan is a hard working, excellent investigator who, directly or indirectly, has touched each and every member of the Canadian National Railways Police Association (CNRPA) across Canada. His steadfast commitment to police issues extends beyond the ambitions of his own police organization to policing on a national level, and he has worked with the British transport police on behalf of the police in Canada.
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June 23, 2005
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Member News |
| Public Is Welcome To Big Valley Railway Day |
The Village of Big Valley is welcoming the public to its Big Valley Railway Day Saturday, Aug. 6.
“This is a great opportunity for children and adults to learn about central Alberta’s railway heritage,” said Harry Stuber, a director and volunteer with the local Canadian Northern Society.
“The day will also provide an opportunity for visitors to experience the operation of a diesel-electric locomotive and other railway equipment, courtesy of the Canadian Heartland Training Railway.
Big Valley Railway Day will feature guided tours of the historic former Canadian Northern Railway depot and roundhouse facility, and of the former Alberta Wheat Pool grain elevator. The grain elevator tour will include a special presentation, Vanishing Sentinels, that focuses on these famous, former landmarks of the prairies.
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June 21, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Seeking 2005 Nominees For Railway Hall of Fame |
The Canadian Railway Hall of Fame is seeking public nominations for leaders, heroes, communities and technologies that helped make freight and passenger railways the backbone of the Canadian economy. Deadline for entries is Aug. 12. Those selected will be announced in September.
“The inductions are part of a series of annual events and activities that showcase the role that freight and passenger rail plays in Canada’s economy,” said Bruce R. Burrows, Acting President and CEO of the Railway Association of Canada. The Hall of Fame was created with the support of the RAC’s 60 freight and passenger railways, communities, museums, corporate sponsors and the public at large.
To submit a name for consideration, use the form available on the Railway Hall of Fame web site at http://railfame.ca and give your reasons why you believe your nominee, invention or community deserves recognition.
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June 15, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| TransCAER training sessions |
On June 13 and 14, CN Risk Management in concert with the Railway Association of Canada conducted TransCAER training sessions in the CN’s Brockville railyard.
The 7 presentations demonstrated the CN911 training car to Fire fighters from Cornwall, Brockville, North Augusta, Elizabeth-Kitley, and Front of Yonge Township. Also in attendance were representatives from the Transportation Safety Board and Transport Canada.
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June 15, 2005
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Regulatory Affairs News |
| Revised Hours of Service Rules Come into Force on June 29, 2005 |
The current Work/Rest Rules, dated April 01, 2003 have been revised as of June 29, 2005.
In addition to the revised “Work/Rest Rules” an “Interpretation Document” has been developed to effectively and practically explain how to interpret and comply with the revised Rules.
The Interpretation Document was developed with input by all stakeholders engaged in the revision of these Rules. For the convenience of all stakeholders and to ensure consistent application the current version of the Rules and Interpretation Document will always be available on this website (www.railcan.ca).
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Document(s):
Click here to download the Interpretation Document in PDF (58 KB)
Click here to download the Work Rest Rules in PDF (58 KB)
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June 1, 2005
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Member News |
| CP brings Wind Power to the Prairies |
Harnessing wind power is fast becoming a popular way for Canadian power generation companies to provide environmentally friendly power solutions. Canadian Pacific Logistics Solutions (CPLS) is playing its part to feed that demand for wind power through a multi-million dollar transportation deal recently signed with Vestas Canadian Wind Technology.
Vestas, a leading provider of wind turbines in North America, is creating an 84-structure wind farm at Hak, Saskatchewan. To build the wind farm, the company must bring the European-manufactured equipment needed for the project to the prairies. That is where CPLS and Canadian Pacific Railway come into play.
Over the next six months, CPLS will facilitate the move of seven trains, each filled with dozens of blades and generators, called nacelles, from the Port of Houston to Hak, Saskatchewan. Traveling over rail, each 67-car train will carry the equipment to build 12 wind turbines.
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May 27, 2005
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Member News |
| Canadian Pacific Railway names Kamloops’ interchange |
Canadian Pacific Railway continues to honour the significant role of Chinese railway labourers during railway construction more than 120 years ago. In a ceremony highlighted by a Lion Dance that symbolizes good luck and good blessings, Canadian Pacific Railway named a railway interchange in Kamloops in honour of Cheng Ging Butt, a railway labourer who represented the dedication of those who came forward to work on the CPR transcontinental line in the B.C. interior.
Thousands of Chinese railway workers helped build the Canadian Pacific Railway from the West Coast to Eagle Pass in the Monashee Mountains of Western Canada. Many perished from harsh working conditions and disease.
“Cheng Ging Butt is representative of the extraordinary people who withstood harsh working and living conditions to not only help build a railway, but a nation, as well,” said CPR Vice President, Paul Clark. “The Cheng Interchange also symbolizes the important role Chinese railway workers made in the development of the entire railway industry in Canada. In recognizing all Chinese workers for their sacrifices, CPR is paying our deepest respects and gratitude.”
Joining the CPR at the ceremony were members of Cheng Ging Butt’s family, representatives from the Chinese community in Kamloops and officials from the City of Kamloops.
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May 27, 2005
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Member News |
| Ontario Northland Unveils the Near North’s Newest Tourist Attraction: The Dream Catcher Express |
ntario Northland and its community partners unveiled the Near North’s newest tourist attraction today, the “Dream Catcher Express”, an exciting train excursion between North Bay and Temagami.
Operated by Ontario Northland as a special 100th anniversary of rail initiative, the Dream Catcher Express will enjoy a limited run of just 9 days – September 22 to 25 and September 28 to October 2, 2005. In partnership will local hospitality operators, the Dream Catcher Express will offer passengers a variety of unique experiences including the romance of rail travel, vibrant fall colours and a sampling of aboriginal culture.
“The Dream Catcher Express will allow passengers a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of fall, as they travel between North Bay and Temagami,” said Steve Carmichael, President and CEO of Ontario Northland. “We think that this is a fantastic way for Ontario Northland to commemorate its 100th anniversary of offering rail services and as well, demonstrates our commitment to working with community partners towards the economic development and prosperity of the North.”
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May 24, 2005
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RAC News |
| Spring Edition of Interchange |
The Spring edition of Interchange lays the groundwork for capacity expansion and the continuing work to smooth the flow of domestic and international traffic. It provides Paul Coté’s perspective on the company, the market, the employees, and their challenges in his new position as President and CEO of VIA Rail Canada. It tells us that the public likes freight and passenger rail a lot! It introduces the new fleet of Bombardier rolling stock in commuter service on AMT’s Montreal-Dorion-Riguaud line. There’s information on the mechanical services the RAC provides the industry and its customers, and how Slave Lake became a safer community for all with the help of the Mackenzie Northern Railway. Read on. Make every day a safe one.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the Interchange publication in PDF (5.6MB)
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May 24, 2005
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Member News |
| 24-hour terminal access to smooth traffic flow at Lachine |
Truckers will have better access to the Lachine Terminal, now that Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) is introducing a 24-hour operation schedule at the terminal in Montreal.
Starting Monday June 6th, Canadian Pacific Railway's Lachine Terminal will be open from midnight Sunday until midnight Friday. The move to increased operating hours will enable trucking companies to better serve their clients by having the ability to expand their own delivery schedules through increased access to their loads.
Alan Parry, the General Manager of Intermodal Operations at CPR, says the extended hours initiative was created after joint consultations with representatives from the Québec Trucking Association (which represents a majority of the trucking industry in Québec), I.E.Canada, Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association and the shipping community. It will help address the surge of truck traffic early in the week at Lachine terminal, resulting from heavy import volumes coming in through the port of Vancouver.
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May 18, 2005
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Member News |
| CN reaches agreement in principle with Teamsters Canada Rail Conference on new labour contract, averting national strike |
CN and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) today reached an agreement in principle on a new labour contract for the company’s locomotive engineers in Canada.
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May 13, 2005
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Miscellaneous |
| CN announces Safe Community Fund winners |
The CN Safe Community Fund has awarded grants totalling $25,000 to ten safe communities across Canada to implement rail safety initiatives. The Fund is administered by the Safe Communities Foundation on behalf of CN.
The initiatives range from staging mock train-vehicle collisions at local high schools and conducting safety blitzes at highway/railway crossings to safety presentations by CN Police to students at all levels and media messaging through public service announcements, newspaper ads, billboards and web sites.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the Bellevile document in PDF (39 KB)
Click here to download the Chatham-Kent document in PDF (39 KB)
Click here to download the Hamilton document in PDF (39 KB)
Click here to download the Kingston document in PDF (39 KB)
Click here to download the National document in PDF (39 KB)
Click here to download the Rainy River document in PDF (48 KB)
Click here to download the St. Thomas-Elgin document in PDF (39 KB)
Click here to download the Strathcona document in PDF (39 KB)
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May 10, 2005
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Member News |
| Governments sign on to Ottawa's light rail |
The federal and provincial governments signed a memo of understanding with Ottawa mayor Bob Chiarelli yesterday on Ottawa's light rail plan, signalling that their commitment to investing up to $200 million each in the commuter rail project is a "done deal." "The commitment is there so it's a done deal," said federal Infrastructure Minister John Godfrey. Yesterday was the first time that the two senior levels of government have committed themselves in writing to invest in Ottawa's commuter train project. That's a victory for Chiarelli, who has promoted the project for years. "It took a lot of champions to get to where we are today," said Chiarelli. "This project is the largest ever in the city of Ottawa." Chiarelli said signing the agreement is a key step in the city's quest to complete the $675-million expansion of the O-train through downtown and into Riverside South and Barrhaven...(Ottawa Citizen 050510)
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May 8, 2005
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Miscellaneous |
| Edmonton Inducted |
Brent Cheek (on right), Director of Standards for RailAmerica and a member of the board of directors of the Canadian Railway Hall of Fame presented a certificate to Mayor Stephen Mandel (on left) inducting the City of Edmonton into the Hall of Fame Saturday night during Alberta's Legacy Centennial Ball.
Photo by: CPimages
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Click here to download the photo release in JPEG (94 KB)
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April 29, 2005
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Member News |
| OCR Safety Expo and Open House |
Wrapping up Rail Safety Week in Canada, Ottawa Central Railway’s "Safety Expo and Open House" returns on April 30. The popular annual activity promises a day of railway safety and fun on the trains! "Close to 3 thousand visitors dropped by last year" says Ottawa Central General Manager, James Allen, "and it’s an excellent forum to help the community, and kids in particular, learn about railways and rail safety issues first hand."
Click Here to view OC Transpo's page for OCR's Open House
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April 29, 2005
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Member News |
| CN, Maher Terminals of Canada Corporation and the Prince Rupert Port Authority announce plans to launch new container terminal in first-quarter 2007 |
With $60 million in funding for the new Port of Prince Rupert container terminal now secured from the Canadian and British Columbia governments, CN, Maher Terminals of Canada Corporation and the Prince Rupert Port Authority announced today plans to make the new terminal a reality in the first quarter of 2007.
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April 29, 2005
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Miscellaneous |
| Work, Live Safely |
CPR Police explain the need for safety at highway/ railway crossings to truck drivers at the railway's Calgary Intermodal Terminal Friday, part of a national effort by Operation Lifesaver and its partners to save lives in communities along Canada's railways.
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Click here to download the photo release in JPEG (77 KB)
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April 29, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Short Line Infrastructure Investment Announcement in Quebec Welcome News |
Quebec’s short line railways welcomed today’s announcement by the governments of Canada and Québec to participate in the renewal of their infrastructure, and to expand rail-based intermodal service to help reduce freight traffic on the roads.
The federal and provincial governments will each contribute $30 million, and the short lines involved will invest a total of $40 million to the program over five years. The short lines include the Chemin de fer de la Matapédia et du Golfe inc., Québec Gatineau Railway, St. Lawrence and Atlantic Railway, and the Montreal Maine & Atlantic Railway.
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April 29, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| Ottawa Central Railway TransCAER |
The Ottawa Central Railway (OCR) and the Railway Association of Canada (RAC) today conducted a TransCAER (Transportation Community Awareness Emergency Response) presentation to members of the Ottawa Fire Service and representatives from Transport Canada.
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April 28, 2005
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Miscellaneous |
| Community, Youth Push Safety |
High school students, emergency responders and Amqui, QC community leaders delivered a powerful message to exercise caution as highway-railway crossings across Canada by staging a mock collision between a freight train and a school bus Wednesday during Rail Safety Week.
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April 28, 2005
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Member News |
| Savage Companies to Acquire Alberta Railnet Short Line Railway From North American Railnet |
On April 21, 2005, Savage Companies of Salt Lake City, Utah, announced that through its wholly owned subsidiary, Savage CANAC Corporation, it had acquired Alberta RailNet Inc., effective May 1, 2005.”
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April 26, 2005
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Miscellaneous |
| Safety Blitz - Montréal |
CN Police, and other Operation Lifesaver partners, are encouraging motorists to exercise caution at highway/ railway crossings across Canada during Rail Safety Week. As part of the community outreach initiative in Montréal, police hand out literature to drivers at an intersection near Atwater.
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Click here to download the photo release in JPEG (75 KB)
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April 25, 2005
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RAC News |
| Program Will Improve Visibility at Rail Crossings |
A provincial program to put reflective material on warning signs at uncontrolled highway/rail crossings will improve safety throughout Nova Scotia.
The program involves the application of reflective material on the front and back of signposts at 54 uncontrolled crossings (crossings that do not have gates or flashing lights) that are under provincial jurisdiction. The reflective material will also be applied to the back of the railway crossing sign at the top of the signpost.
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April 25, 2005
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Member News |
| CN conducts safety blitzes across Canada to raise awareness about safety at highway/railway crossings |
CN Police today announced it will conduct safety blitz operations at highway/railway crossings in more than 70 locations across Canada during Rail Safety Week, from April 25 to May 1, 2005. As an ongoing part of the company’s All Aboard for Safety community education program, CN Police officers will make motorists and pedestrians aware of the importance of rail safety during the blitzes.
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Click here to download the CN Press Release in PDF (231 KB)
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April 21, 2005
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Member News |
| Via Rail Smartens Up Atlantic Canada Ocean Service with New Easterly Class: A Maritime Learning Experience |
Starting June 1, VIA Rail Canada will be relaunching its overnight Easterly Class service on the Montreal-Moncton Halifax train, the Ocean, creating a rail journey that immerses travellers into the romance of the Maritime provinces. Educational and enriching, the new and improved Easterly Class: A Maritime Learning Experience will celebrate this history-rich region while pampering passengers with the amenities they'd expect from a premier class sleeper service.
Operating June through October 31 of 2005 and May through October beginning next year, the new Easterly Class service will be a seasonal upgrade to the Ocean's already existing Comfort Sleeper class, which will continue to run year-round.
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April 21, 2005
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Member News |
| Vancouver Port Authority and Canadian Pacific Railway sign agreement to enhance Asia-Pacific trade |
The Vancouver Port Authority (VPA) and Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) announced today they have signed a cooperation agreement to work together on joint capacity development. The agreement is a significant step forward to more fully capture expanding Asia-Pacific trade opportunities for the benefit of all Canadians and British Columbia's economic growth.
Initiatives will include marketing and domestic public policy advocacy programs to enhance competitiveness, operational efficiencies and customer service at the Port of Vancouver. CPR and the VPA have also committed to ensuring that the Port of Vancouver is the most secure port system on the West Coast of the Americas.
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April 20, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| 2005 Operation Lifesaver Safety Week |
High school students from Mont Joli, Quebec will dramatize a mock school bus collision with a freight train, police officers will blitz motorists at highway/ railway crossings across the country and an officer on the Train initiative in Richmond, B.C. will help Operation Lifesaver and its partners publicize safety along Canada’s railways next week. The 2005 national Rail Safety Public Awareness Week kicks off on April 25.
Operation Lifesaver is a national public safety program sponsored by Transport Canada and the Railway Association of Canada. It works with provincial safety councils, police, unions, railways, the trucking industry, and community groups to help reduce crossing collisions and trespassing incidents along Canada’s railways in communities across the country.
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April 19, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Report Provides Show and Tell Of Rail’s Environmental Performance |
Canada’s 60 freight and passenger railways have provided the public and other industries with a thumbnail sketch of how they successfully reduced their fuel consumption, cut greenhouse gases, and minimized their environmental impact while hauling 30 per cent more freight and passengers.
The information is in the industry’s just-published Locomotive Emissions Monitoring Program report to Environment Canada for 2003. It is part of a 10-year voluntary government-industry agreement signed in 1995. The Railway Association of Canada, Environment Canada and Transport Canada are negotiating a new agreement that will take effect in 2006.
Bruce Burrows, Acting President and CEO of the RAC, said “the key to the industry’s success has been a common objective, and a step-by-step plan to achieve clear targets.”
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April 19, 2005
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Member News |
| Efficient Operating Practices |
Canadian Pacific Railway will receive $250,000 to demonstrate and measure the effects of innovative feedback mechanisms and training for train operators to achieve greater fuel efficiency. Direct feedback will be provided to employees on a regular basis to ensure the best and most fuel-efficient operating practices are being used. To determine if this training initiative can significantly improve fuel efficiency, fuel consumption will be measured on a monthly basis over a 12-month period to assess the impact of feedback mechanisms and training on employees handling of the trains.
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April 18, 2005
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Member News |
| CPR begins capacity expansion in western Canada |
Canadian Pacific Railway announced today it has begun a major expansion of the track network in its western corridor extending from the Prairie region to the Port of Vancouver.
The expansion is expected to cost approximately $160 million. When completed this fall, it will increase CPR's capacity in western Canada by 12 per cent, or more than 400 freight cars a day. Depending upon the rate of utilization of the additional capacity, the expansion would translate into full-year incremental earnings per share(1) (EPS) in the range of $0.25 to $0.40.
"There have been positive developments in our customers' markets as well as sufficiently encouraging signals in the federal government's Bill C-44 that CPR has decided to take the first step to expand our western track network," said Rob Ritchie, President and Chief Executive Officer of CPR.
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April 15, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Emerging Issues, Clear Options |
Some 165 delegates participated Thursday in the annual workshop in Ottawa on rail-related issues. From the left are: Fred Green, CPR's Chief Operating Officer; Joe Rektor, Prince Rupert; Karen Oldfield, Halifax; Bruce Burrows, Railway Association; Capt. Gordon Houston, Vancouver; Marian Robson, CTA and Janice Murray, CN. (CNW Group/Railway Association of Canada)
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Click here to download the photo release in JPEG (1.3MB)
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April 15, 2005
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Member News |
| Road Scholars - Trainees to master art of conductor trade at non-profit, dual-purpose short line |
It’s a short line. A training center. A short line and a training center. It’s the Canadian Heartland Training Railway (CHTR), which will operate a former Central Western Railway Corp. branch line in Stettler, Alberta, to move freight as well as provide conductor trainees hands-on courses in a realistic work environment.
An education division of the Railway Association of Canada (RAC), the Institute of Railway Technology (IRT) has offered a conductor training program in association with Vancouver’s British Columbia Institute of Technology, Calgary’s Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and Toronto’s George Brown College since September 2001. But something’s been missing the past three years.
“While employers of the first few classes of conductors were satisfied with the students’ knowledge, [railroads] expressed a need for graduates to have practical experience with specific skills,” says IRT Director John Carstairs, adding that some students also voiced a desire to immediately perform the job – and avoid an apprenticeship period – after joining a railroad.
Enter CHTR, a non-profit company formed earlier this year to provide the practical training portion of the conductor curriculum.
Article From April 2005 Edition of Progressive Railroading
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Click here to download the full article in PDF (362 KB)
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April 14, 2005
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RAC News |
| 9th annual CTA/RAC workshop on rail, port and cross-border transportation capacity, security and infrastructure issues |
Some 165 delegates from 24 departments, agencies and companies participated Thursday in the 9th annual Canadian Transportation Agency and Railway Association of Canada workshop in Ottawa on rail, port and cross-border transportation capacity, security and infrastructure issues.
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Click here to download the ABH Transportation Analysis and Consulting Presentation in PDF (257 KB)
Click here to download the Port Infrastructure - Halifax Port Authority Presentation in PDF (435 KB)
Click here to download the Port Infrastructure - Prince Rupert Port Authority Presentation in PDF (2.0MB)
Click here to download the Port Infrastructure - Vancouver Port Authority Presentation in PDF (30 KB)
Click here to download the Public-Private Partnerships and Freight RailroadsPresentation in PDF (831 KB)
Click here to download the Rail Capacity - CN Presentation in PDF (210 KB)
Click here to download the Rail Capacity - CPR Presentation in PDF (303 KB)
Click here to download the Safe Dangerous Goods Transport Presentation in PDF (239 KB)
Click here to download the Transport Security Presentation in PDF (122 KB)
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April 7, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| TransCAER: Establishing Trust and Bond with BC Community |
CN was one of the presenters when representatives from communities around Barrier, British Columbia attended a BC TransCAER session hosted by the North Thompson Indian Band, of the Chu Chua Reserve, on
March 12.
TransCAER - Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response – is part of Responsible Care, put together by the chemical and transportation industries to explain safety relating to the transportation of dangerous goods. "We provide information as to what moves through communities as far as chemicals go, and what is available for help," explains Bill Danks, risk management officer, Vancouver. Bill along with Norman Witzell, constable, CN Police, made the CN presentation.
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April 6, 2005
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Member News |
| CN orders 75 locomotives from two builders, secures options to acquire 75 more |
CN announced today orders for 75 high-horsepower locomotives from two builders.
CN will take delivery of 50 ES44DC locomotives from GE Transportation Rail, a unit of General Electric Company, and 25 SD70M-2 locomotives from Electro-Motive Diesel, starting in the fourth quarter of 2005, with completion by mid-2006.
The ES44DCs are rated at 4,400 horsepower, and the SD70M-2s at 4,300 horsepower.
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April 6, 2005
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Member News |
| Marking a milestone in passenger rail in Canada with the deal of the century |
Who said turning 50 was something to fret about? VIA Rail Canada has an irresistible offer that makes blowing out all those candles on the birthday cake worth getting excited about. It's an offer open to anyone celebrating their 50th birthday in the month of April. But you'll have to act quickly, this offer is valid only until April 30, 2005.
VIA Rail is wishing a "Happy Birthday to baby boomers" turning 50 in April 2005 with a very special offer. Beginning April 1, 2005 until April 30, 2005 travel first class - Silver & Blue - from Vancouver to Toronto, or any two cities in between, for only $50! That's $100 for the round trip. Silver & Blue class is VIA's award-winning premier service that includes on-board meals, sleeping accommodations and exclusive access to the observation dome car with 360° panoramic viewing.
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April 1, 2005
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Member News |
| VIA Rail brings back the "lounge car" experience |
It's a touch of elegance - a tantalizing sneak preview of the style that has made VIA Rail Canada's reputation for world class rail service. The Glenfraser, one of VIA's most luxurious specialty cars, is making a guest appearance, in limited service between Montreal and Toronto, on all Fridays and Sundays from April 8 to May 29, 2005. Take advantage of a relaxing and stylish way to end a busy workweek or an event-filled weekend.
The star of VIA's PRIVA service, the Glenfraser is a sumptuous lounge car with the look and feel of a private club. A study in understated style, it is fully furnished with sleek armchairs grouped around café tables, stylishly upholstered banquettes, brushed aluminum fittings, an elegant stand-up bar and full picture windows.
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March 31, 2005
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Member News |
| VIA Rail Canada's "Canadian" is turning 50 |
Who said turning 50 was something to fret about? VIA Rail Canada has an irresistible offer that makes blowing out all those candles on the birthday cake worth getting excited about. It's an offer open to anyone celebrating their 50th birthday in the month of April. But you'll have to act quickly, this offer is valid only until April 30, 2005.
VIA Rail is wishing a "Happy Birthday to baby boomers" turning 50 in April 2005 with a very special offer. Beginning April 1, 2005 until April 30, 2005 travel first class - Silver & Blue - from Vancouver to Toronto, or any two cities in between, for only $50! That's $100 for the round trip. Silver & Blue class is VIA's award-winning premier service that includes on-board meals, sleeping accommodations and exclusive access to the observation dome car with 360 degrees panoramic viewing.
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March 31, 2005
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RAC News |
| PRICEMASTER Update |
The latest version of the PRICEMASTER data files are effective as of April 1st and are available from download on the RAC public website.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the full version of the PRICEMASTER data file in ZIP (2.2MB)
Click here to download the PRICEMASTER in PDF (1.2MB)
Click here to download the short version of the PRICEMASTER data file in ZIP (1.0MB)
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March 25, 2005
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Member News |
| VIA RAIL Canada marks 10 years in Japan |
VIA Rail Canada marked the tenth anniversary of its Japan office with a luncheon reception today at its Tokyo location. A total of 80 guests, representing VIA Rail, tour wholesalers, government and media, met to celebrate VIA's first decade in the facility. Over the past 10 years the office has helped thousands of tourists from the region to choose VIA Rail for their travel plans.
"VIA Rail Canada's Tokyo office is a significant element in our efforts to increase our presence in this key market," says Joe Volk, VIA's Director for Western Services. "This investment in the Japanese market has provided us with many opportunities to showcase our products, as well as build strong partnerships with the operators. The Japanese tourist's interest stretches beyond just the Canadian Rockies - VIA's Windsor to Quebec City and Atlantic services are also extremely popularfor this group of travelers."
Japan represents one of the top three sources of passenger traffic for VIA from outside Canada. Last year alone, VIA welcomed more than 44,000 passengers from Japan on board its trains, and the market indicators are pointing towards considerable growth over the foreseeable future.
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March 24, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Operation Lifesaver Funding to Continue |
Transport Minister Jean C. Lapierre today announced continued funding of $1.25 million over five years for Operation Lifesaver, a national public education program dedicated to reducing rail crossing collisions and trespassing incidents on railway property. The Operation Lifesaver program is jointly funded by Transport Canada and the Railway Association of Canada.
“Although the number of railway crossing collisions and fatalities across Canada has declined over the past decade, the Government of Canada continues to seek opportunities to further improve the system’s safety,” said Mr. Lapierre. “Operation Lifesaver provides an excellent opportunity for us to work with Canada’s railways to reduce the number of railway crossing and trespassing incidents.”
Operation Lifesaver was created in 1981 and works in cooperation with the Canada Safety Council, provincial and territorial safety councils and leagues, railway companies, unions, police, and public and community groups to reduce fatalities, injuries and damage caused by crossing collisions and trespassing incidents. To date, both Transport Canada and Canada’s railways have provided approximately $8 million in funding for this program.
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March 17, 2005
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RAC News |
| On Track for the Future – Policy Priorities 2005 |
The RAC has produced a new brochure: “On Track for the Future – Policy Priorities 2005”, which identifies the fundamental role the rail sector plays in Canada’s economy and society, the success of the rail industry in serving Canada, and its excellent environmental and safety credentials. From there, the brochure speaks to major issues facing the Class 1, short line and passenger railways and indicates the appropriate actions for Governments to address these issues.
Key areas include: taxation levels which penalize Canadian railways; deregulation and the extraordinary progress of the railways; the beneficial role of passenger rail; and the need to adopt full-cost accounting and user-pay for highways. The brochure emphasizes the very positive current and potential roles of Canada’s railways in the economy, and for dealing with major challenges such as congestion, greenhouse gas emissions and highway infrastructure costs.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the policy priorities 2005 brochure in PDF (1.3MB)
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March 14, 2005
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Member News |
| VIA statement on appointment of new president |
Earlier today, VIA Rail Canada issued the following statement, following the government's appointment of Paul Côtés the company's president and chief executive officer :
"'I am honoured to accept this appointment,' said Mr. Côté. 'I view this as a vote of confidence by Minister Lapierre and the government in the organization, and especially in its 3,000 dedicated employees. I look forward to leading the VIA team as we innovate together cost-effectively to make VIA the Canadian leader in service excellence in passenger transportation.'"
"Mr. Côté has been in the Canadian rail industry for more than 30 years. After spending six years with Canadian National Railway, he joined VIA shortly after it was created in 1977. Since then, he has been involved in almost every aspect of VIA's operations, from customer service to his recent tenure as Chief Operating Officer and appointment as acting president and CEO, a year ago. These mandates have enabled him to gain broad experience, and an in-depth understanding of Canada's passenger rail industry.
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March 8, 2005
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Miscellaneous |
| 1 in 5 drivers fell asleep at the wheel: study |
One in five people have fallen asleep while driving in the past year – nearly a third of them after only an hour behind the wheel, a survey by a safety watchdog suggests.
As many as 4.1 million drivers could have nodded off on Canadian roads during the last 12 months, according to the study released Tuesday by the Traffic Injury Research Foundation.
The Road Monitor Study 2004: Drowsy Driving, which surveyed 1,200 Canadians last May, also found that men are more likely than women to fall asleep.
More than a third of the respondents who admitted to falling asleep said they had been driving for only an hour when it happened, while a quarter of them said they'd been behind the wheel for two to three hours and only 30 per cent had been driving for four or more hours.
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March 8, 2005
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Member News |
| CN promotes Ed Harris to executive vice-president, operations |
CN announced today the promotion of Ed Harris to the position of executive vice-president, operations, effective March 8, 2005.
Harris has been senior vice-president, operations, since June 2003.
E. Hunter Harrison, president and chief executive officer of CN, said: “Ed is one of the finest railroaders in the industry – experienced, insightful, ar-ticulate and decisive. Ed has played a significant role in leading the implementation of many operational advances that have kept CN at the forefront of rail industry performance in North America.”
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March 3, 2005
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Member News |
| Mackenzie Northern Safety Milestone |
Mackenzie Northern operated 1,000 days without an FRA reportable personal injury, as of March 3, 2005. Shawn Smith, Vice-president of MKNR, praised all employees for their outstanding effort in reaching the milestone. He said: "With all of the issues surrounding our railway, the intensity of our operations, distances, weather conditions, and other circumstances, it is an incredible accomplishment when we are able to post an injury-free record to the extent that we have. Please accept my personal appreciation and the appreciation of RailAmerica, Inc., our communities, and our customers. I am very proud of all our employees."
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February 25, 2005
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Member News |
| CN and Ontario Northland Sign Routing Protocol for Ontario and Québec Rail Traffic |
CN and Ontario Northland announced today a two-year routing agreement to expedite the transportation of northeastern Ontario and northwestern Quebec freight traffic.
Under the haulage agreement, CN will pay Ontario Northland a fee to transport its freight traffic between North Bay and Noranda, Que., and between Noranda and Hearst, Ont., cutting almost 850 miles off previous all-CN and CN-O.N. Rail routings.
CN and O.N. Rail, Ontario Northland’s rail division, connect at Rouyn Noranda, a major natural resources centre in northwestern Quebec, and at the northern Ontario communities of North Bay and Hearst. North Bay is located approximately 200 miles north of Toronto; Hearst is situated almost 300 miles north of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.
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February 23, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Railways Disappointed |
Canada’s railways are disappointed that the federal government chose not to address the industry’s need for Capital Cost Allowances that are competitive between Canada and the U.S., and between modes in this year’s federal budget.
“Rail is the most energy efficient way of moving people and goods and can deliver more benefits to Canada, and Canadians, under the Kyoto Accord. One of the best ways to achieve these benefits is through capital cost allowance reductions for rail,” said Christopher Jones, Director of Federal Provincial Government Liaison for the Railway Association of Canada.
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February 22, 2005
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RAC News |
| Lay budget tracks to Kyoto |
As Finance Minister Ralph Goodale prepares to table his budget, it is widely surmised that energy-saving equipment and technologies will benefit from enhanced capital cost allowance (CCA) provisions. The CCA is a tax deduction for business-related investment in capital property. The higher the rate, the faster a firm can write off an asset and replace it with more modern equipment or machinery.
The investment decisions of firms and industries are partly driven by the CCA rate. According to a recent Finance Canada study, net economic benefits to taxpayers are maximized when the CCA rate applying to new capital expenditure is increased. As the pressure on Canada rises to meet the aggressive targets for greenhouse-gas reduction to which it is committed under the Kyoto Protocol, using the CCA as a lever is good economic and environmental policy.
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February 16, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Kyoto Is a Tough Challenge For Canada - But One It Needs to Win |
Al Cormier, the president of The Centre for Sustainable Transportation, says Canada has the toughest job of all countries that have agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the Kyoto Protocol. But it is a challenge the country must win.
“Canada is the only ratifying country experiencing substantial population growth between 1990 and 2012,” said Mr. Cormier. “As a result, the per-capita reduction in GHG emissions required of the 15 participating European Union countries, for example, is 14 per cent. For each Canadian, the emission reduction target is 23 per cent.”
“Canada’s ratification of the Kyoto Protocol is laudable, notwithstanding its population challenge. But we must follow through with actions that are effective enough to ensure that our obligations will be met,” said Mr. Cormier. “That won’t happen without strong measures to curb GHG emissions, particularly from road transport.”
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February 14, 2005
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RAC News |
| Interchange - Winter 2005 |
The Winter edition of Interchange gives you some insight into all the work and planning that goes into getting ready for the months of very cold weather, snow, freezing rain and ice that are part of our lives in running an around the clock transportation network that moves so much of the nation’s freight and passengers. Then there the story of Rocky Mountaineer’s continuous improvement and steady growth as an important, successful western rail tour operator. And the co-production initiatives that will help squeeze some more, needed capacity out of existing resources. As well as the regular features and constantly new developments. Read on.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the publication in PDF (7.5MB)
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February 9, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| More than 1,000 aboriginal students from Ontario learn about future job prospects |
More than 1,000 aboriginal students from Ontario were in Ottawa Wednesday to learn about future job prospects. John Carstairs of the Railway Association of Canada's training institute briefed some on the skills required by the freight and passenger railways.
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Click here to download the photograph in JPEG (988 KB)
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February 3, 2005
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RAC News |
| Proximity Progress Report 2004 |
The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), representing 1,100 municipal governments, and the Railway Association of Canada (RAC), representing 60 freight and passenger railways, signed a memorandum of agreement in May 2002 to manage issues arising when communities and railway operations are in close proximity. Three committees were created to raise awareness of the issues and improve communication; implement a formalized but flexible dispute-resolution process; and develop guidelines to facilitate solutions to problems of land-use, noise, and other proximity issues. The purpose of this publication is to report on the progress to-date towards achieving the proximity initiative’s objectives.
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Click here to download the report in PDF (1.2MB)
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February 1, 2005
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Member News |
| Transport Minister Proposes an Appointment to VIA Rail |
Transport Minister Jean-C. Lapierre today proposed the appointment of Mr. Paul Côté as president and CEO of VIA Rail Canada Inc. The proposed appointment will be referred to the Standing Committee on Transport for review.
"I am very pleased to recommend Mr. Côté to serve in this leadership role with VIA Rail Canada," said Mr. Lapierre. "His extensive experience in Canada's passenger rail industry will be a tremendous asset for the Crown corporation."
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January 31, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Canadian Heartland Training Railway Begins Operations April 1 |
The Canadian Heartland Training Railway (CHTR), a newly-created, not-for-profit organization supported by Canada’s railway industry, will begin offering practical training solutions in a working railway environment on April 1, 2005.
Using a 21-mile short line railway network owned by the Central Western Railway Corporation (CWR) at Stettler, Alberta, the CHTR will provide a safe and practical worksite that will provide working knowledge and experience to those enrolled in railway conductors training programs developed by the Railway Association of Canada’s Institute of Railway Technology.
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January 24, 2005
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RAC News |
| Public Survey Shows Strong Support For Freight and Passenger Railways |
An overwhelming majority of Canadians feel our roads will be safer, and our environment cleaner, if we rely more on freight and passenger trains.
A new Redfern Research survey, commissioned by the Railway Association of Canada and fielded by Leger Marketing in December, was released today (Monday). It finds that 90 per cent of Canadians feel trains are the safest and most environmentally-friendly way of moving goods, and 72 per cent believe freight trains – compared with the alternatives -- are best for society overall.
A clear majority of respondents also felt that intercity passenger and commuter rail services led the modal choices to reduce environmental impact, improve public safety and enhance benefits to society.
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January 18, 2005
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Dangerous Goods News |
| Railway Security Training Course - January 2005 |
Security concerns in Canada and related efforts to enhance railway security measures have increased dramatically over the past few years. This is particularly evident in the handling and transportation of dangerous goods on Canada’s railway network. As a result, the RAC Dangerous Goods team is pleased to offer its member railways a comprehensive Railway Security Training package.
There exists legislation in the United States that requires railway companies to provide security awareness and in-depth security training to their employees who are involved in the handling, offering for transport or transporting of dangerous goods. Similar legislation is being considered in Canada. As a proactive measure, the RAC has developed this security training package for Canadian railways that is similar to the training offered in the U.S.
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January 17, 2005
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RAC Press Release |
| Radio Spectrum Appointment |
Daniel Lafreniere has been named manager of the radio spectrum at the Railway Association of Canada. The spectrum contains the radio frequencies assigned to Canadian railways for all aspects of their train operations and network management, and is used by rail customers to help trace the progress of their domestic and international freight shipments.
The appointment was announced today by Mike Lowenger, Vice-President of Operations and Regulatory Affairs for the RAC. Canada’s 60 freight and passenger railways own some 3,000 radio base stations, and 25,000 mobile radios that are used to help keep the industry’s steel wheels turning, and railway employees in contact.
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January 11, 2005
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RAC News |
| Interchange |
The Fall issue of Interchange provides fascinating context to the efforts that go into the safe transportation and handling of dangerous goods, and plans for GO Transit’s service expansion to carry up to 78,000 rail commuters during rush hour and reduce auto travel by 1.1 million vehicle km every day by 2011. The efforts by Canada’s railways to maintain, and grow their business, are captured in a feature on capital programs, and training new employees for the future in five community colleges are outlined. Plus regular news and developments ….
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Click here to download the publication in PDF (5.3MB)
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January 6, 2005
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RAC News |
| Pricemaster - January 2005 |
Now available. See also Mechanical Sevices section.
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Document(s):
Click here to download the Price Master in PDF (1.2MB)
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