THUNDER BAY – “Returning passenger rail to one of the most spectacular routes in the country – through Marathon, Terrace Bay, Schreiber, Nipigon, and Thunder Bay – will be a huge boost to those communities and to rail tourism alike.” said Hyer, who is past President of the North of Superior Tourism Association (NOSTA) and has served on the board of directors of Northern Ontario Tourist Outfitters Association (NOTO). “Now that gas prices have jumped because of the HST, it is more important than ever to give residents and tourists alike more transport options in our region. This will also help diversify the local economy by showcasing one of the most beautiful rail journeys in Canada.”
Bruce Hyer is determined to see passenger rail return to Thunder Bay-Superior North, and has re-introduced a motion in the House of Commons to help restore service. First introduced in the last Parliament, his motion died along with all other bills and motions when the 2011 federal election was called.
The text of the motion reads: That in the opinion of the House, the government should commit to re-establishing passenger rail service to Thunder Bay and the North Shore of Lake Superior, and should report back to the House within six months on its progress.
Hyer, the Associate Small Business and Tourism Critic for the federal New Democrats, also announced his intention to launch an MP’s Commission on Passenger Rail North at Superior.
“There is huge support for reviving passenger rail here – nearly 10,000 petition signatures in the last two years make that abundantly clear,” stated Hyer. “Now that we’ve demonstrated there’s the will, we’ll find the way. I’m launching a Commission that will look into the feasibility of local passenger rail. It will be made up of people from around the riding that can help build our case”.
Hyer adds, “My office will be making an announcement on this later, but people can find out more now and sign the petition at www.revivesuperiorrail.ca“.