Minister of Transport Marc Garneau visits the museum

Federal Minister of Transport (and passenger train enthusiast) Marc Garneau visited the Toronto Railway Museum on Wednesday, April 27, to mark Rail Safety Week 2016.

Minister Garneau was at the museum to announce $10.9 million in new federal funding to upgrade over 400 railway level crossings across Canada. He also took the opportunity to tour the museum and see some of our collection of historical railway equipment and artifacts.

The minister was accompanied by Adam Vaughan, Member of Parliament for the local Spadina-Fort York riding; Julie Dabrusin, MP for Toronto-Danforth and Kate Young, MP for London West. Also present for the announcement were Mike Regimbal, National Director of Operation Lifesaver, and Michael Bourque, president of the Railway Association of Canada.

The 2016 edition of Rail Safety Week runs from April 25 to May 1. Throughout the week government and rail industry representatives are promoting increased awareness of safety around railway operations, and how government and industry are working together to make Canada's rail system safer for all Canadians.

This includes programs like Operation Lifesaver, which provides outreach and education about the hazards around railway property and trains. Through these activities, Operation Lifesaver aims to prevent collisions between trains and motor vehicles, as well as deaths and injuries due to trespassing.

Click on each image for a closer look!