Those in New Westminster fighting to reduce the noise coming from rail yards may soon have some legislation in their corner.
Burnaby-New Westminster New Democrat MP Peter Julian introduced a private member's bill to the House of Commons Thursday that would prohibit railway companies from engaging in noisy rail yard activities in residential areas between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.
"Existing legislation allows companies to pay lip service to the complaints of residents and continue their unreasonable and unresponsive behaviour," Julian said in a press release. "We are left with no other choice but to carry on the fight in the courts and reverse the legislative changes brought forth by the Senate in 2007. The well-being of our sleepdeprived communities was negotiated away, and the solution is to keep pushing for tough legislation. That is what (Bill) C-393 is about."
Noise from rail yards has long been an issue for condo owners on Westminster Quay, who Julian has been meeting with. Julian added in the release that he is calling on other Canadians to support the bill through Parliament.
"Our offices have been receiving complaints on rail noise, and I urge concerned communities to pressure this government to listen to reason and common sense. Quayside residents, in fact all Canadians, are entitled to a good night's sleep," said Julian.
