2006-06-05
Author: AM 1250/Mix 96 News
The Farmer Rail Car Coalition is prepared to support the government's decision to retain ownership of the country's hopper car fleet.  In light of it, the Coalition has prepared a list of recommendations for the Tories on how to address some of the operational concerns the group has identified.  The suggestions include delivery of the $35 million refurbishment program agreed to between the Coalition and Transport Canada to be completed within 5 years at no expense to taxpayers or farmers.  Also, the government should commit to a car replacement program,  at no cost to farmers, to be delivered as soon as it's possible to replace the current cars with modern high capacity cars.  Plus, government should provide an opportunity for private contractors to bid on and supply hopper car maintenance.