Statement by the leader of the NDP on the anniversary of the Lac-Mégantic tragedy

Official Opposition Leader Tom Mulcair made the following statement on the anniversary of the Lac-Mégantic tragedy:

“Two years have passed since the tragedy in Lac-Mégantic, which cost the lives of 47 people.

“For years, New Democrats have been calling on the federal government to reinforce the country’s rail safety. It’s the government’s responsibility to impose strict regulations on the transport of dangerous goods and to ensure there are more unscheduled, periodic, risk-based inspections.

“In January, we called on the government to carry out an independent investigation into the rail transport of dangerous goods. Dangerous tank cars should also be eliminated to prevent another tragedy.

“An NDP government would build a railway bypassing Lac-Mégantic, which has already paid a high price in human lives.

“On this tragic anniversary, on behalf of all New Democrats, I wish to assure all the victims’ loved ones that our thoughts and prayers continue to be with them. It is urgent that we implement higher rail safety standards to ensure that this tragedy never happens again.”