Ontario Northland unions propose Huron Central solution

NEWS RELEASE

ONTARIO NORTHLAND GENERAL CHAIRPERSONS' ASSOCIATION

************************* Transportation issue needs Northern solution

NORTH BAY - The Ontario Northland General Chairpersons’ Association (GCA) met today to discuss the state of rail infrastructure and the deterioration of services by the two short-line railways in our region.

Ottawa Valley Railway and the Huron Central Railway both operated by American-owned companies have stated they are looking at pulling up stakes because of the recent downturn in the economy, which could leave the north with no train service from North Bay to Sault Ste. Marie. “This is not a time to reduce infrastructure in the North," stated GCA spokesperson Brian Kelly.

“We believe that the only viable long-term solution is to have Ontario Northland become the transportation and communication authority for all of Northern Ontario. This is a Northern problem and we have a Northern solution,” continued Kelly. “Ontario Northland already operates motorcoach and communications services across the North, and run freight and passenger services throughout Northeastern Ontario. This is the opportune time for the Crown corporation to expand westward to ensure all the communities in the North have fair access to a safe and reliable transportation system," added Kelly. "If federal and provincial investment dollars are to be allocated to ensure the viability of these rail and passenger services, it makes good sense to apply those funds to a corporation that has been in the rail business in Ontario for over 100 years. Both senior levels of government should use the ONTC as the agency to deliver much-needed services and infrastructure investment for all of Northern Ontario," concluded Kelly. The GCA is made up of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Teamsters Canada Rail Conference, United Steelworkers and Canadian Auto Workers unions who represent all unionized employees at the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission.

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