Mr. Speaker, the subject is a very serious one and safety is in fact Transport Canada's preoccupation in all its activities.
I point out to the hon. member that it is certainly correct, there has been an increase in mainline accidents. I would suggest, however, the figures should be looked at rather carefully to see what level those accidents are on. In fact, in terms of the more serious accidents there is a very slight change.
I can also assure the member that only an hour ago I was meeting with the presidents of Canadian National and Canadian Pacific to discuss this very issue and I certainly welcome his concern on this account.