VANCOUVER — Port Metro Vancouver figures rail performance is a critical factor in becoming the most reliable and consistent supply chain in North America, and CN agrees.

Earlier this year, in a submission to the Transport Canada Rail Freight Service Review Panel, the port called on Ottawa to implement a commercial approach to defining, measuring, monitoring and ensuring a high level of rail service.

Instead, Port Metro Vancouver has teamed up with CN to develop that commercial approach. The two organizations recently signed an agreement to further drive efficiencies at the port and recognize the importance of balanced accountability.

The agreement sets the framework for the port, CN and port stakeholders to develop mechanisms to define, measure, monitor and evaluate the performance of each participant at the port against established benchmarks.

“CN is encouraged that CN and Port Metro Vancouver reached this innovative pact through commercial negotiation,” says Claude Mongeau, CN president and CEO. “The agreement will focus stakeholders on working together to achieve continuous improvement in supply chain performance at the port.”

It also establishes processes to proactively communicate on service-related matters and resolve disputes between CN, the port and port supply chain participants on a commercial basis.

“I am pleased that we were able to work collaboratively with CN on this initiative,” says Robin Silvester, Port Metro Vancouver president and CEO. “The agreement will help align port stakeholders’ interests and ensure that each party is accountable for the optimal performance of the Vancouver Gateway.”