MP Allen Applauds Rail Crossing Improvements near St. André and Grand Falls

April 16, 2010

TOBIQUE-MACTAQUAC — Mike Allen, Member of Parliament for Tobique-Mactaquac, stood in the House of Commons on Wednesday, April 14, to bring attention to the Government of Canada’s commitment to improve rail grade crossings across Canada and in his own riding.

“Every day, thousands of Canadians, including the good people of my riding of Tobique-Mactaquac, drive across rail tracks on their way to work, to visit family or to drop kids off at school,” Mr. Allen commented during Question Period. “Today, our government is investing in their safety. This morning, we announced $11 million to upgrade 155 high priority rail grade crossings right across Canada, including near St. André and Grand Falls.”

The investment, which is part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, will install a constant warning time device for 183.05 km of CN railway near St. André Road in Grand Falls. The total project cost is $218,500, with Transport Canada contributing $174,800.

“This is yet another example of how Canada's Economic Action Plan is helping Canadians and making a difference in their communities,” Mr. Allen continued. “This investment is already producing a positive effect. In 2009, there were 36 per cent fewer deaths and serious injuries than in the previous year in Canada.

“One accident is too many, but our government is taking concrete steps to keep Canadians safe.”

Almost half of all railway-related deaths and injuries result from accidents at crossings, which is why the Government of Canada works closely with railway companies and road authorities to identify grade crossings that require safety improvements. The government also partners with organizations to implement safety awareness programs, including the Operation Lifesaver program.

For more information on the Grade Crossing Improvement Program, please visit:
www.tc.gc.ca/eng/railsafety/publications-46.htm