1 November 2004 Canadian Pacific Railway Presents Federal Government with Blueprint to Stabilize Hopper Car Uncertainty Winnipeg - Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) presented the Government of Canada with a blueprint that preserves and brings stability to Canada's grain handling and transportation system. Key elements of the proposal were shared by CPR representatives attending a one-day meeting in Winnipeg to discuss the future of the federal government hopper car fleet.   "Canadian Pacific Railway is interested in ensuring that Transport Canada is aware of all viable options that will ensure the continuing integrity of the grain handling and transportation system. We feel the plan we presented provides a vibrant option that preserves existing efficiencies while addressing the longer term maintenance needs and replacement requirements of the aging federal fleet," said Marcella Szel, Vice President of Marketing, Bulk Commodities for CPR. "The bottom line is that CPR wants to ensure the most reliable, cost-effective grain-handling system possible for Canada, which means having access to a steady and reliable supply of rail cars for our customers."   CPR's presentation to the federal government proposes the following:   Transport Canada would maintain ownership of the hopper car fleet as part of a new long-term operating agreement in which the cars would continue to be leased to the railways.   The railways would ensure future capacity for regulated grain and would manage and operate the cars as part of a larger fleet.   The railways would continue to maintain the cars to industry standards at the same time initiating a major quality enhancement program.   "The win-win for all stakeholders is that there would be assured car fleet capacity for shippers, no impact on freight rates, and taxpayers' investment would be protected; It would eliminate the never-ending debate on disposal price and would stimulate investment by railways in car quality and future replacement," said Szel.   CPR also said that if the Government of Canada decides to dispose of its hopper car fleet, the railway is ready to participate in a competitive-bid process to acquire the grain cars.   "If the federal government elects to dispose of the hopper-car fleet, we will put in an offer to purchase the grain cars," Szel stated.   "CPR appreciated the opportunity to have an open dialogue with Transport Canada and other stakeholders and we remain confident that the federal government will seriously consider our blueprint when deciding on the long-term future of Canada's grain handling and transportation system," she added.