To the Editor,
Re: Will rail survive on Vancouver Island? Guest Comment, April 9.
Since governments invest in all other modes of transportation, why not rail? There is even a more compelling reason why an investment should be made to our public railway.
There is a legally binding contract between Queen Victoria (the Crown) and Robert Dunsmuir (mining company) and his successors, to operate a seven-day-a-week, 365 days a year, rail service on the E&N railway in perpetuity, all in exchange for the rights to the minerals five miles either side of the track.
Even though the contract was signed by Dunsmuir and Her Majesty 100 ago, it is still in force, i.e. ‘in perpetuity’.
Even more compelling is the fact that transportation by rail is more efficient, removes dangerous cargo from our roads, lowers greenhouse gases, saves lives, creates jobs and more.
Rail was the original preferred mode of transportation, one that other developed countries continue to invest in.
Where are our governments?
David Weston
and Ian Gartshore
Nanaimo