To the Editor: I would like to respond to John De Pape's ongoing criticism of the Canadian Wheat Board and De Pape's disparaging remarks about Travacon.
Travacon has been called upon as an expert witness on several high level rail hearings and it was Travacon's analysis that won the day. I would be interested to know what formal training or practical experience on rail costing that John De Pape has on his resume. Travacon has determined that railways save $3.00 per tonne when they make one stop to pick up 100 hopper cars. Farmers are now asking why the railways use an $8 incentive for a $3 saving. If John thinks the saving is different than $3, does he have an analysis, or is he simply being coached by the railways?
The CWB plays a vital role in transportation and their level of service complaint in 1997 resulted in 30 million dollars being returned to farmers from the CPR and an undisclosed settlement from CN rail.
The Canadian Wheat Board played a major role in the positive CTA decision that, during the 2006-07 crop year, CN breached its legal obligations to provide adequate rail service. The CWB supported these farmers and several inland terminals involved. There are numerous other examples of the CWB's positive role in transportation.
What actual results has De Pape provided to farmers?
We know that De Pape has worked for Cargill grain, Sparks commodities, the Winnipeg Commodity Exchange, the Alberta Government and the Frontier Center. The Frontier Center has noted CWB haters Al Loyns, Charlie Mayer, and Rolf Penner all playing prominent roles.
De Pape is also listed as an advisor to the Alberta government funded Alberta Barley Growers Association.
As renowned American Author Mark Twain once stated, "Tell me whar a man gits his corn pone, en I'll tell you what his 'pinions is."
In his essay, Twain explained that a man is not independent, and cannot afford views which might interfere with his bread and butter. Twain, if he were around today, would describe De Pape as having Corn Pone opinions. That is opinions very related to his past, his present and future financial well being.
Kenneth Sigurdson, Swan River, MB.
