CP disappointed with Minister of Transport's comments on ongoing Transport Canada investigation

CALGARY, June 23, 2015 /CNW/ - Canadian Pacific (CP) is profoundly disappointed with the Minister of Transport's comments regarding an ongoing investigation into an alleged breach in safety rules. Such comments undermine the reputations of hardworking employees who take pride in their commitment to the safe movement of goods through communities across North America.

CP is cooperating fully with Transport Canada in this investigation and will continue to do so. No charges have been laid against CP nor have any allegations been proven.

"We are concerned about accusations and threats made in the media by the Minister of Transport during an ongoing investigation where the facts have not yet been established," said E. Hunter Harrison, Chief Executive Officer. "Furthermore, to suggest that there is any parallel between these allegations and the tragedy of Lac-Megantic is, at best, unfortunate."

CP has cultivated a strong safety culture among its employees, a commitment that has made CP the North American leader in train accident prevention for nine straight years. In 2014, CP reported the best accident prevention rate ever achieved by a North American Class I railroad, something all Canadians can take pride in.  

CP has also been among the earliest and most vocal advocates for tougher tank-car standards and has considered the Minister an ally in lobbying for speedier implementation and harmonization of standards between Canada and the U.S. CP is also working hard to employ inward-facing locomotive video recorders as a proactive measure to prevent accidents. The government has allowed political sympathies to hobble this effort, but we encourage the Minister to join CP in supporting this important safety initiative.

"Any insinuation that CP doesn't take safety seriously or would tolerate a culture that allows employees to cut corners or break rules is deeply disturbing and inappropriate," Harrison said. "If we make a mistake, we take responsibility and take action to ensure it never happens again."

About Canadian Pacific

Canadian Pacific (TSX:CP)(NYSE:CP) is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to eight major ports, including Vancouver and Montreal, providing North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of Canadian Pacific.

SOURCE Canadian Pacific