Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour Shirley Bond and Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone released the following statement today regarding the 2016 rafting season in Golden:

“From the moment the Province heard about the challenges facing the rafting season, staff have worked to find a way rafters can continue to safely cross the CP tracks in Golden.

“Staff have been on the ground and at the table in Golden with suggestions and solutions.

“CP has made it abundantly clear that it is unwilling to be a reasonable partner, despite its earlier commitment to work with the community and rafting companies to find a solution.

“It is important to note that the Province has never agreed to assume full legal liability for the track crossing.

“However, the Province does remain committed to the community of Golden and our offer to facilitate a short-term solution with CP will remain open.

“Thankfully, the rafters can still access the upper portion of the river, and we will continue to seek opportunities to bring CP back to the table so that visitors can also enjoy safe access to the hallmark of this world-renowned rafting experience. We will continue to work toward a long-term solution that allows them full access in the years to come.

"We urge CP Rail to reconsider its position as a result, given the significant economic impacts this closure will ‎have on the community. 

“The Province recognizes the value of tourism to Golden and the region and respectfully requests that‎ CP come back to the table to find a solution.”