Please read the following statement from Elizabeth May, MP for Saanich–Gulf Islands and Leader of the Green Party of Canada, recognising the twelfth anniversary of the rail disaster in Lac-Mégantic, QC:
“Today marks 12 years since the horrific rail disaster that claimed 47 lives and devastated the town of Lac-Mégantic, QC.
The survivors and loved ones of those lost have persevered despite suffering incredible grief and trauma. We stand with you and while nothing can change what happened, we can and must ensure it never happens again.
This disaster was preventable. We have had 12 years to act, yet our rail safety laws are still not sufficient to halt a similar tragedy in the future. The train was carrying cargo of extremely explosive Bakkan Shale and discharged over six million litres of crude oil into the town.
We must minimise the risks of transporting dangerous goods and take back control of our railways from private companies. It’s long past time to prioritise public safety over profit. That is what justice looks like.”