Statement by Minister of Transport about the derailment of a freight train near the Sophie-Masson Bridge in Terrebonne, Quebec

OTTAWA, Oct. 13, 2017 /CNW/ - The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, today made the following statement about the derailment of a freight train in Terrebonne, Quebec:

"On October 12, 2017, a freight train operated by Quebec-Gatineau Railway derailed near Sophie-Masson Bridge in Terrebonne, Quebec. I am relieved that there were no injuries, but I am deeply concerned every time there's a derailment in Canada, whether it's on a private, provincial or federal rail line.

"This incident took place on a railway of provincial jurisdiction. That being said, my priority is rail safety and the safety of Canadians. Transport Canada promptly sent an inspector to the site, where provincial and Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) representatives were also present. Transport Canada is working closely with the ministère des Transports, de la Mobilité durable et de l'Électrification des transports du Québec (MTQ) to determine the cause of this incident.

"Transport Canada's role is to offer technical support by providing inspection services. If Transport Canada observes that regulations have not been complied with during an inspection, my department would communicate these findings to the MTQ so that take the necessary actions and ensure that Railway Safety Regulations are met. My department's mandate is to make railway operations in Canada as safe and successful as they can be, by establishing strict rules, regulations and standards to protect the safety of Canada's railway system. I want Transport Canada to continue to hold companies accountable when they fail to follow the rules. This is why Budget 2016 provided $143 million over three years to sustain existing measures and support new and expanded activities to strengthen oversight and enforcement, and to enhance prevention and response capabilities."

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This statement may be made available in alternative formats for persons living with visual disabilities.

SOURCE Transport Canada

For further information: Delphine Denis, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, Ottawa, 613-991-0700, [e-mail]; Media Relations, Transport Canada, Ottawa, 613-993-0055, [e-mail]