NEWS RELEASE
SAULT STE. MARIE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
“We are very disappointed at CN’s unilateral decision and the manner in which it was communicated to the community. We found out this past Friday. There was no prior consultation on this action.” said Tom Dodds, CEO of the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation (SSMEDC).
“Our staff worked hard with CN, the provincial and federal governments to secure $11.2 million for the purchase of upgraded coach equipment and the onboard audio/video technology for the Tour Train. This decision does not reflect a spirit of cooperation between the company and the city.”
“The Agawa Canyon Tour Train is a tourism priority for this community and our organization. As we start to see an increase in US tourists and have increased marketing and promotion of this attraction, it does not help to lose an important winter tourism asset. The Tour Train and the CN passenger service between Sault Ste. Marie and Hearst make valuable contributions to our economy.”
“CN is a very profitable company providing an excellent return to its shareholders. Given its historical role in the economic development of this country and recognizing its commitment to corporate social responsibility noted in its own code of conduct, and our agreement with them we hope their officials give some thought to reconsidering this decision.”
“Our tourism team is keen to work with CN to look at all alternatives to operating the winter train as well as building upon the success of the summer/fall Agawa Canyon.”
“We take issue with CN statement that there is stagnating passenger demand. The refurbished coaches have only been in operation for two winter seasons. We’ve seen growth in the summer and fall operations and had anticipated growth in passengers this winter season.” added Dodds.
CN has a code of business conduct community activities and investment. Part of that code states the following:
"CN is an active member of the communities in which we operate. It is important that we do the right thing in managing our relationships with these communities and the governments that serve them.”
Their code of conduct goes on to say:
"CN is committed to building safer, stronger communities. We support communities through employment, by paying taxes and through other economic benefits. But we have a responsibility to go further. We are a concerned corporate citizen in the towns and cities where CN employees live and work.
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