FAQs: Regulations on Operational Terms for Rail Level of Services Arbitration

1. What is the purpose of these regulations?

The Canada Transportation Act provides for arbitration when shippers and railway companies are not able to reach a negotiated level of services agreement. The matters eligible for arbitration are described, in part, by the use of the expression "operational terms".  The Regulations on Operational Terms for Rail Level of Services Arbitration serve as a framework for what constitutes an "operational term" to give support to conducting arbitrations.

2. What are the key elements of these regulations?

The Regulations on Operational Terms for Rail Level of Services Arbitration define the expression "operational term" for the purposes of paragraph 169.31(1)(c) of the Canada Transportation Act.

3. How do these regulations affect Canadian businesses?

Specifying what constitutes operational terms in the Regulations on Operational Terms for Rail Level of Services Arbitration supports the commercial negotiation of level of services agreements between shippers and railway companies, bringing clarity and predictability.  In cases where the parties cannot reach an agreement on a commercial basis on a level of services agreement or specific terms and shippers request that the Canadian Transportation Agency arbitrate, the Regulations on Operational Terms for Rail Level of Services Arbitration help focus on the issues in dispute and allow resolution within the legislated timeframe.

4. Where can I get more information?

For more information contact:

Canadian Transportation Agency

Ottawa, ON
K1A 0N9

Telephone: 1-888-222-2592
TTY: 1-800-669-5575
Fax: 819-997-6727

E-mail : info@otc-cta.gc.ca
Website: www.cta.gc.ca