AWC commends quick action by the Government on Bill C-30, including the addition of compensation provisions.
The Alberta Wheat Commission (AWC) is pleased to see expedited action taken by the Government of Canada to move forward with Bill C-30 and implement long-term solutions to transportation shortfalls.
“AWC would like to recognize the members of the House of Commons and the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food for the amendments made to strengthen the legislation and the potential for effective Service Level Agreements between railways and shippers,” says Kent Erickson, Chair of the AWC. “The need for financial penalties was identified by AWC as a necessary component for Service Level Agreements.”
The amendment introduced by the Committee will not only motivate the railways to fulfill their service obligations, but it will also provide the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) with the authority to order the railway to compensate any person adversely affected for any expenses that they incurred as a result of the company’s failure to fulfill its service obligations. The CTA would also have the power to order the railways to pay penalties outlined in any other contracts between railways and shippers.
“This is a positive development in response to a pressing issue for farmers and we are pleased with the support from all parties in the House of Commons,” adds Erickson. “We are confident that this legislation will continue to proceed quickly as the Bill moves on for its third reading in the House of Commons later this week.”
Bill C-30 also includes provisions that would allow the federal Cabinet to set minimum volume requirements for the railways in extraordinary circumstances. The Bill will increase reporting, inter-switching limits, and allows for a better definition of “suitable and adequate service” as this pertains to common carrier obligations. AWC looks forward to continuing to work with the federal government to shape the regulatory framework that will be developed as a result of the proposed legislation.
Source: Alberta Wheat