Railways Act Proclaimed

The provincial government now has clear legislative authority over the safety of short-line railroads operating in Nova Scotia. Lt.-Gov. Myra Freeman today signed the proclamation that gives effect to The Railways Act, 1993.

"The act, including regulatory changes approved by cabinet, clarifies roles and responsibilities that were set out previously in operating agreements," said Ron Russell, Minister of Transportation and Public Works. "The province made a commitment a number of years ago to provide this legislation, and I'm pleased that it's now in effect."

The act's focus is on safety regulation. It provides the authority to regulate the safety of railways under provincial authority by adopting existing federal regulations and operating rules. An amendment to the Protection of Property Act also establishes the legal means to address trespassing on railway property.

"This act ensures the province can apply current regulations, rules and standards under the federal Railway Safety Act," said Mr. Russell. "And we can enter into an agreement with the Canadian Transportation Agency to help resolve any issues around rail crossings."

The Railways Act, 1993 outlines the process for obtaining railway operating licences and provides shippers an opportunity to make alternative arrangements in the event that a railway proposes to discontinue service.

Two short-line railroads operate in Nova Scotia. The Windsor and Hantsport Railway operates about 100 kilometres of track between Windsor Junction and New Minas. The Cape Breton and Central Nova Scotia Railway operates 400 kilometres of track between Truro and Sydney.