Status (updated on March 14, 2001) On March 13, 2001 WESTAC released the "Understanding Competitive Rail Access and Position Profiles" report. This comprehensive document focuses on competitive rail access issues and issues related to emerging market structures and capital sustainability. On January 10, 2001, the Minister of Transport relased the CTA Review Panel's interim report on Competitive Rail Access Issues. The Panel is accepting comments on the report through its website and intends to use the second half of its mandate to bring the parties closer to a common ground. In addition, on January 19, 2001 an "Issues Under Consideration" paper was released, identifying the main issues that the Panel is considering. It reflects the Panel's assessment of the consultations and submissions to date. The Panel will assess the overall effectiveness of the current legislative framework to provide the basis for the kind of transportation system which Canadians need. In conducting its assessment, the Panel will consult with purchasers and suppliers of transportation services and other parties as appropriate. The Review Panel will make recommendations as necessary and desirable relative to national transportation policy and legislation. Early discussions with the Panel have indicated a desire to have a "forward looking" dimension to the Review. Therefore, information on current and emerging trends, where they are leading, and the impacts on transportation would be useful to the Panel. The Terms of Reference call for consultations with purchasers and suppliers of transportation services and appropriate others. The scope of the Review could be quite broad, covering the operation of the CTA and "any other Act of Parliament for which the Minister is responsible" (CTA and Related Acts). However, a priority area will be the rail sector. A Secretariat will assist the Review Panel. The Executive Director is Mr. Emile Di Sanza (formerly with Transport Canada’s Motor Carrier Policy branch). Canada Transportation Act Review Initiative June 30, 2000 Transport Minister Announces Review of the CTA "Understanding Competitive Rail Access and Position Profiles" report Review's website: www.reviewcta-examenltc.gc.ca |