UIC is sad to inform you that Cliff Mackay, President and C.E.O. of the Railway Association of Canada (RAC), passed away on 26 January at the age of 64.

The RAC released the following statement: “The RAC Board wishes to acknowledge Cliff’s valuable contribution to the leadership of the Association and our industry and wishes to express its sincere condolences to his family,” said Claude Mongeau, Chairman of RAC, and President and C.E.O. of CN. His spirit and wise counsel will be sorely missed by the Board, employees and members of the RAC. Under his leadership, the industry worked in close partnership with various government and regulatory agencies to accomplish a great many benefits, including a successful review of the Railway Safety Act Review Panel for which results are now before Parliament. Other industry efforts during his tenure resulted in increased capital cost allowances for Canadian railways that generated significant savings and investment for the industry and new infrastructure support for short line railways.”

“RAC staff was inspired by the way he dealt with his illness with no complaint, a fighting spirit and endless optimism,” said Bruce R. Burrows, Vice President, Public and Corporate Affairs. “He was a fine leader, a valued colleague, and a good friend. We will miss him profoundly.”

The relationship between the UIC and the RAC has always been one of mutual support and there are strong links in which Cliff Mackay took a keen interest especially in the areas of safety (level crossings, IRSC etc) as well as the work related to freight operations and the International Heavy Haul Association.

On behalf of the worldwide railway community, all UIC staff members wish to express their sincere condolences to Cliff’s family, colleagues and friends.