Mr. Speaker, it is always a pleasure to answer a question from the hon. member for Levis. I thank him for this opportunity to make a few comments on railway safety.
First, I can assure him that there are figures to prove there is no significant difference between the number of accidents and problems in the railway system of Quebec and in other provinces. I could give him the exact figures but unfortunately I do not have them with me at this moment.
It is most unfortunate that people are losing their jobs in Charny but the House may rest assured that there is no problem linked to safety. The CN decided to centralize the main operations for repairs to track maintenance equipment, but routine maintenance will be done in the field. Finally, CN will step up routine equipment maintenance. Track maintenance, which is essential to ensure safety, will continue to be ensured using equipment in good repair.
Transport Canada works together with railway companies to provide Canadians with the highest standard of rail safety. Railways are required to comply with the Railway Safety Act and it is up to Transport Canada to ensure that safety standards are complied with in accordance with the law.
Transport Canada railway safety officers will oversee railway operations as well as the maintenance of tracks, equipment and railway crossings to ensure railway safety.
The act enables them to limit railway operations when and if they discover unsafe conditions and to impose penalties on the companies in the event of a violation.
The decision made by CN to centralize equipment maintenance is merely a business decision that does not affect safety.