2022-03 INCREASING SAFETY OF RAILWAYS
Whereas 1 Canadian cities and towns developed historically around railroad stations since these companies were the major motor of the burgeoning local economy, ensuring the transportation of people, goods, and products, as well as equipment to markets across the fledgling country;
Whereas 2 there has been an exponential increase in Canada in the number of railway cars transporting toxic substances as well as an increase in the number of accidents; and
Whereas 3 despite long-standing recommendations by the Government of Canada, railroad companies have neglected to maintain and upgrade the rail lines and the viability of their railway cars & tankers;
Whereas 4 a number of cities are reviewing their vision for their city and developing 20-50 year plans, setting priorities for the best use of the land, to maximize the value and ecological sustainability of their economy as well as ensuring the safety and enhancing the quality of life for their citizens and their community; therefore be it
Resolved 1 that the National Council of Women of Canada (NCWC) adopt as policy the need for increased railway security and reduced railway accidents; and be it further
Resolved 2 that the National Council of Women of Canada urge the Government of Canada to strengthen and enforce the codes and regulations for rail companies and require rail companies to upgrade and maintain rail lines, railway cars, and tankers; and be it further
Resolved 3 that consideration be given to include a plan and to subsidize moving the network of railroads and rail yards out of the densely populated areas to industrial transportation hubs on the outskirts of the towns or cities; and be it further
Resolved 4 that Local and Provincial Councils of Women urge their respective levels of government to cooperate with local and regional stakeholders in the relocation of the railways from their respective densely populated locations to ensure the safety of their citizens and communities.