Whereas Canada's population is distributed in a fashion where
relatively densely populated areas are Separated by vast distances,
and,

Whereas various modes of transportation including roads, air travel,
Shipping and rail travel have historically each been major factors in
maintaining the one-ness of Canadian Identity, and

Whereas each of these modes of travel have historically been
Subsidized by the Federal Government either in the form of operating
Subsidies or by capital construction Subsidies, and

Whereas the Federal Government nas recently decided to slash the
passenger rail system to a fraction of its former self, and

Whereas this decision will place greater burdens and further needs for

—

subsidy onto the cther transportation systems, and

Whereas concern for the environment has become the number one priority
of Canadians, and

Whereas rail travel on an existing system of track is the most
environmentally benign and efficient Way to move large numbers of
people.

Therefore be it resolved that the Government of Canada be urged to
commission a study aimed at developing a National Transportation
Policy that would encourage a mix of all transportation modes (roads,
air, rail and water) in a fashion that maximizes:

a) energy efficiency

b) environmental compatibility

ce) user acceptance

d) access by all Canadians

And be it also resolved that pending the outcome of the study and its
implementation, the government be urged to make no cuts in the
existing VIA rail service;

And be it further resolved that this resolution be circulated to all
Canadian cities for their consideration, and that it be forwarded to
the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

Adopted by Stratford City Council on October 10, 1989.

Dave Hunt = Mayor

R. Schulthies - Clerk

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