RAC expresses its sympathy for the victims of the Lac-Mégantic incident

The Railway Association of Canada (RAC) again expressed its deep sympathies for the victims of the Lac-Mégantic, Que. derailment today, as the Quebec coroner released his reports into the incident.

“This tragedy never should have happened,” said RAC President & CEO Michael Bourque.

“We want the people of Lac-Mégantic to know that we remain committed to learning everything we can from this tragedy, and that we’re working with all levels of government to make sure that our industry is as safe as possible.”

Since the incident on July 6, 2013, Canada’s railways have worked with Transport Canada to develop new train securement and operating practices to ensure rail safety. The industry has also introduced new information-sharing, emergency preparedness, and first-responder training initiatives, and has made significant investments to ensure the safety of its infrastructure. The RAC now also requires companies to make a commitment to safety culture, as a condition of membership in the association.

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Contact:

Alex Paterson
Railway Association of Canada
613-564-8111
alexp@railcan.ca

About the Railway Association of Canada

The Railway Association of Canada (RAC) represents more than 50 freight and passenger railway companies that move 75 million people and $250 billion worth of goods in Canada each year. As the voice of Canada’s railway industry, RAC advocates on behalf of its members and associate members to ensure that the rail sector remains globally competitive, sustainable, and most importantly, safe. Learn more at railcandev.wpengine.com. Follow us on Twitter: @RailCanada or Facebook: www.facebook.com/RailCanada.