Liberals Call on Government, NDP to Support Study of Security on Canada’s Trains

May 6, 2013

OTTAWA– Liberal Public Safety critic Francis Scarpaleggia made the following statement today on Canada’s passenger and freight train security:

“In light of the recent alleged terrorist plot targeting VIA Rail, it is more important than ever that Parliament be seized with a study of safety and security aboard our passenger and freight trains.

That is why I have tabled a motion in the House of Commons Public Safety and National Security Committee to study the subject forthwith.

It is essential that we hear from outside experts, as well as officials at Public Safety Canada and other departments, in order to obtain a balanced view of the situation and gauge our preparedness.

I call on the Conservative government and the NDP to support my motion, so that the committee can conduct thorough hearings into rail security in Canada and suggest improvements if necessary.”

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Background:

Mr. Scarpaleggia’s motion is as follows:

That, pursuant to Standing Order 108(2), the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security invite officials from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Canadian Security and Intelligence Service, Public Safety Canada, VIA Rail, Canadian National Police, Canadian Pacific Police Service, and other anti-terrorism experts that the Committee deems pertinent, to appear at two meetings—to be held either in public or in-camera, as decided by the Committee—to brief the Committee on current modes, systems and procedures for protecting rail transport in Canada, passengers and freight, against terrorism.