Editor: Why should CP or the provincial government be expected to take on the liability of trespassing businesses in order for those same said businesses to make as much fast money as possible?
Do not be fooled ... these rafting companies are all about the most revenue in the shortest amount of “turn-around” time. They have options, and a good long stretch of river to accommodate their activities. Operating from the west ... putting in at 5 Mile is quick, convenient and lucrative. Driving to the Beaverfoot road entails a more time to revenue ratio.
If the Lower Canyon portion of the river is so vital to the local economy ... then why doesn’t the Town of Golden step forward and take on the liability? Too expensive ... too much of a risk? Exactly. Then why should CP Rail or the B.C. government be expected to do so?
I ask ... how many business owners in Golden would willingly take on the liability of a neighbouring business that involves a high risk activity where fatalities occur ... with the risk of potentially being dragged into expensive litigation?
The rafting companies’ waiver covers the activity and associated risks according to them. I highly doubt that trespassing on a busy active rail line as part of the “activity and associated risk” has been covered in any of the lower canyon waivers over the years. By condoning crossing of the (CP) tracks in an unmarked area ... who do you think the high priced lawyer is going to go after first when there is an incident involving litigation?
Once Transport Canada officially brought the trespassing issue to CP’s attention, they had no choice but to do something about it. If the B.C. government stated it would take on the liability, then the town needs to get that in writing before CP can even think about returning to the table to work on any future access.
Let us not forget ... CP is operating a mainline railway through our area. CP is keeping the economy moving. CP has done a lot to be a good corporate neighbor ... there are limitations. If you don’t like trains, or operating a business near trains ... don’t live or set up shop near train tracks. Sometimes train tracks are used by trains.
If the opening day Glacier Rafting participant photos posted to the Town of Goldens’ Facebook page are any indication ... it appears that folks are ecstatic over their “epic” Kicking Horse River rafting adventure ... without the need to trespass.
How about being thankful you can still raft a protected heritage river in the Canadian Rockies?
How about being grateful for what you do have ... instead of feeling entitled to what you don’t?
Karla Gaffney
Field, B.C.
