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Port Metro Vancouver is calling on the Canadian government to implement a "commercial approach" to defining, measuring, monitoring and ensuring a high level of freight-rail service.

The port proposed its recommendations last week in a submission to the Transport Canada Rail Freight Service Review.

“Optimal rail performance is a critical factor in achieving the port’s goal to develop the most reliable and consistent supply chain in North America,” said Port Metro Vancouver President and Chief Executive Officer Robin Silvester in a prepared statement.

The freight-rail system serving the port works “reasonably well,” but lacks consistency and reliability, port officials believe.

The port recommends the government develop and implement rail service agreements; provide a commercial dispute resolution mechanism to address problems; expand the use of rail assets and networks through commercially negotiated co-production agreements; and implement independent monitoring to evaluate and report on performance.