No. H073/06
For release June 30, 2006

MINISTER CANNON ISSUES
STATEMENT ON CN DERAILMENT IN B.C.

OTTAWA — The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities today released the following statement concerning the derailment of a CN freight train north of Lillooet, B.C. last evening:

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would first like to convey my condolences to the families of the two CN employees killed in this tragic accident. Our thoughts are also with the injured employee and his family.

“We are cooperating fully with the Transportation Safety Board as it investigates this accident. Transport Canada has appointed a Minister’s Observer, who will keep me informed of the investigation’s progress.

“In addition, as a standard response to this type of accident, the department will verify that the company continues to comply with all aspects of the Railway Safety Act and the Canada Labour Code, Part II.

“Any safety deficiencies identified through the Transportation Safety Board’s investigation or Transport Canada’s inspection program will be addressed immediately.

“Safety is Transport Canada’s top priority. We will continue to work with the Transportation Safety Board to do all we can to maintain and enhance the safety of Canada’s rail sector.”

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