Due to a number of train derailments in recent years, New Brunswick’s Official Opposition is asking that CN Rail demonstrate that it’s making the necessary investments to keep their system safe and to properly communicate these investments to the impacted communities.

“New Brunswick has unfortunately witnessed incidents in Plaster Rock, Moncton and two in the Edmundston area one of which included a fatality” says Roger Melanson, interim Leader of the Official Opposition. “I am concerned about the level of safety of the rail system in our province, and I can’t help but question if the system is adequately maintained. I believe this needs to be looked into.”

Since Canada’s rail industry is regulated by the Federal Government, the Liberal Leader has written to the newly appointed Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, requesting he look into the situation.

“The railways are a critical piece of transportation infrastructure supporting our economy by providing access to our export markets. We need to be assured they are well maintained and safe” says Roger Melanson. “As the regulator of Canada’s rail industry, I urge Minister Alghabra to ask CN Rail to demonstrate its capacity to keep our communities safe by making the necessary investments in maintenance and technology to improve safety.”