Gavin Magrath has recently been quoted several times in articles discussing the ongoing commercial disputes between Omnitrax LLC, owner of the Hudson’s Bay Rail line to Churchill, MB, and the Federal Government as well as at least to consortia of possible purchasers.
The rail line suffered damage earlier this year, which Omnitrax has failed to repair, claiming that the line is not profitable for them in any case. Under the Transportation Act, owners of rail lines are required to file and comply with service level agreements and must comply with the regulatory process for review and sale if the service is going to be discontinued.
In the meantime, residents of the isolated communities on the line – most of which have no alternative overground access – are paying the price in higher transportation costs, higher costs of food and necessities, and reduced travel and tourism.
