A delegation representing Northern Manitoba communities and First Nations along the OmniTrax-owned Hudson Bay Railway as well as other supporters of the railway and the Port of Churchill met with Winnipeg MP and Natural Resources Minister Jim Carr Aug. 3 to discuss OmniTrax’s closure of the port and urge the federal government to get involved in salvaging the 2016 shipping season.
The delegation, comprising representatives of Churchill, Opaskwayak Cree Nation, The Pas, Gillam, Thompson, War Lake First Nation and the Hudson Bay Route Association, said in a press release it is prepared to work with partners to lease the port operation from OmniTrax on an urgent basis while continuing to work towards a long-term sustainable plan to keep the port operating.
“What we heard in the room today was a sincere willingness to understand the concerns of indigenous and non-indigenous communities, present these to government and create a co-ordinated strategy amongst government,” said Churchill Mayor Michael Spence. “The Northern Delegation seeks a sustainable long-term solution and will partner with those who understand the importance and potential of Canada’s only Arctic seaport. We will work with those who share our vision and commitment to growth. We will not give up and know that a bright future awaits us while we work through this process.”
The delegation asked the minister for a follow-up meeting with key federal officials in Ottawa within 10 days to continue work to resolved what they called “a critical national issue.”
The 2016 shipping season will not be lost if action begins with the next few weeks and the delegation says the business case for shipping grain and other commodities to Europe and other markets remains strong.
“The Churchill catchment area, which includes a significant portion of northeastern Saskatchewan and parts of Manitoba relies upon Canada’s only Arctic seaport to bring grain to market and we must immediately reverse these actions to save the 2016 grain season,” said Hudson Bay Route Association president Eldon Boon.
The delegation says support for laid-off workers should also be a high priority and that the federal government must come to the table at the highest level possible to help keep the port operational.
“The Port of Churchill and the Bayline are key assets that can lead to further growth benefitting Canada,” said Spence. “The Northern Delegation is a diverse coalition united in its goal to work with governments and the private sector to realize that potential and is pleased to work with others who share this vision and commitment to the north.”
