Short line operators form lobby group

OTTAWA (Oct. 1, 2001) — A new association of short line and regional railways supports reforms to federal transportation law that would ensure the viability of regional and short line railways and provide shippers with a competitive choice.

The Association of Regional Railways of Canada said it will press for changes to the Canada Transportation Act, which is currently under review by the federal government.

“Just as deregulation in the telecommunications industry led to greater competition and better prices for long distance customers, ensuring seamless access to rail infrastructure at competitive prices can greatly benefit businesses and enhance the economic viability of communities that ship goods by rail,” said ARRC Chairman Mark Mudie. Mudie is also BC Rail’s President and chief operating officer.

“We believe that rail competition can be enhanced given a strong framework between short line, regional, and Class One carriers,” Mudie said.

The founding members of ARRC are BC Rail, The Hudson’s Bay Railway, The Carleton Trail Railway, and Ferroequus Railway Co. Ltd. The members determined that their interests were best served in a new organization that specifically supports the interests of short line and regional railways.