The improvement resulted from the port and terminal operator agreeing to more consistent release times for shipments and CN adjusting schedules to expedite the movement of traffic over its network between Quebec City and Toronto.
CN will explore opportunities to expedite the shipment by rail of other commodities moving over the Port of Quebec, including metals and minerals concentrates.
Ross Gaudreault, president and chief executive officer of the Quebec Port Authority, said: "I am pleased with the cooperation among all port stakeholders and thank CN for its efforts to accelerate service from the Port of Quebec. Thanks to CN, the Toronto and the U.S. Midwest markets are more accessible than ever before by rail for both the port and its partner terminal operators."
Marc Dulude, executive vice-president and chief operating officer of Port of Quebec operation of International-Matex Tank Terminals (IMTT), said: "IMTT believes the collaborative work among stakeholders will make the Port of Quebec an increasingly competitive option for shipments destined to North America, including energy products, and drive new efficiencies in the supply chain. Toronto is now only hours away from Quebec City, and this significant performance improvement will benefit other markets near Toronto and further west."
Air Canada jet fuel arrives by vessel at IMTT's Port of Quebec terminal and moves via CN's freight network to a fuel terminal near Toronto's Lester B. Pearson International Airport.
Jeff Liepelt, CN senior vice-president, Eastern Region, said: "CN is focused on developing innovative solutions that help our customers and partners compete more effectively in their end markets. Improved transit times from the Port of Quebec to the North American interior will help the port accommodate more merchandise and bulk commodity traffic with greater efficiency."
