The CTA’s investigation will be the first it has launched on its own since receiving ability to do so
The Canadian Transportation Agency has launched an investigation into possible freight rail service deficiencies in the Vancouver area.
Federal Transportation Minister Marc Garneau authorized the investigation Jan. 11, at the request of the CTA.
Under provisions added to the Canada Transportation Act in May 2018, the CTA can launch an investigation, as long as it has approval from the federal transportation minister.
The CTA concluded that an investigation would be appropriate after receiving information from shipper associations and other parties.
Western Producer requests to speak with CTA chair Scott Streiner were unsuccessful.
Read Also
Lethbridge Polytechnic receives major donation
Multimillion-dollar donation by Hranac family aids Lethbridge Polytechnic’s research in integrated food production systems, irrigation science and post-harvest technology in Alberta
However, a CTA news release dated Jan. 14 said the investigation will examine a variety of issues, including whether there is evidence of discriminatory treatment of certain commodities, how freight rail permits and embargoes are being used, and whether railway companies operating in the Vancouver area are fulfilling their service obligations.
“One of the CTA’s responsibilities is to help ensure an efficient, smoothly running national rail system,” said Streiner, the agency’s chair and chief executive.
“This is the first time we’re using a new authority to launch investigations on our own motion to advance this mandate.”
A public hearing will be held in Vancouver Jan. 29-30 to gather additional information and to hear evidence from witnesses regarding freight rail service issues in the Vancouver area.
CTA officials said individuals and organizations affected by freight rail service issues in the Vancouver area can request an opportunity to participate by sending an email the Enquiry Officer at Enquete.ferroviaire-Inquiry.rail@otc-cta.gc.ca.
Requests must be received by Jan. 18. A list of participants will be made available once confirmed.
In the Jan. 14 news release, Streiner said evidence gathered through the public hearing will help the CTA to determine whether railway companies operating in the Vancouver area are fulfilling their obligations and what remedies might be required.
“We’ll get the investigation done as quickly as possible, but we’ll take the time required to gather all the relevant facts,” he said.
The Canadian Transportation Agency is an independent regulator on transportation issues and has the powers of a superior court.
It has three core mandates:
- ensuring that the national transportation system runs efficiently and smoothly
- protecting the fundamental right of persons with disabilities to accessible transportation services
- providing consumer protection for air passengers
brian.cross@producer.com
