A returned focus to mining leads to a successful community business venture

The Iron Ore Company of Canada has passed the ownership and operation of 217 kilometres of railway line to a new community business venture Tshiuetin Rail Transportation (TRT).

The company, jointly owned by three First Nations - Innu Matimekush/Lac-John, Naskapi of Kawawachikamach and Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-Utenam - operates a passenger service that keeps a lifeline open for the 1,500 residents in Schefferville - only accessible by rail or air. 

The company has about 40 employees and carries 15,000 passengers a year, mainly First Nations people traveling to their traditional hunting, fishing and trapping grounds. 

TRT now intends to use the service to create business opportunities for the Innu and Naskapi. The railway and its future are now in the hands of local communities with a vested interest in its success.

The transfer of ownership of the rail line means IOC can return focus to mine operations, while still maintaining access to rail infrastructure and supporting local business development in the region.