Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) welcome the federal government’s announcement that the Fair Rail for Grain Farmers Act (Bill C-30) will be extended for an additional year, while the Minister of Transport fully considers the Canada
Transportation Act Review.
Rail interswitching provides Canadian grain producers with alternative options for rail services. The rule has already made for more competitive freight rates and service, and has directly benefitted farmers. Not only have farmers noted reduced costs, they have also gained more leverage in getting rail car capacity where needed. Bill C-30 also ensures producers will be reimbursed for any expenses incurred as a result of the railway company’s failure to comply with its level-of-service obligations, giving Canadian grain farmers a more predictable and stable source of revenue.
“The extension of Bill C-30 will provide both government and producers appropriate ntime to re-assess the bill, while a long-term solution for improving Canada’s rail transportation system is developed,” said GGC’s President Gary Stanford.
The Grain Growers of Canada provides a strong national voice for over 50,000 active and successful grain, oilseed and pulse producers through its 13 provincial and regional grower groups, representing wheat, durum, barley, canola, oat, corn, soybean, pea, and lentil farmers from across Canada. Our mission and mandate is to pursue a policy environment that maximizes global competitiveness and to influence federal policy on behalf of independent Canadian grain farmers and their associations.
Source: GGC