No. H030/02For release - March 20, 2002
OTTAWA — Transport Minister David Collenette, Solicitor General of Canada Lawrence MacAulay, and National Defence Minister Art Eggleton today announced airspace restrictions that will be in effect around Kananaskis, Alberta from June 25 to 28, 2002, as part of the safety and security requirements for hosting the G8 Summit.
The restrictions will affect aircraft movements within an 80 nautical mile radius around Kananaskis. Special arrangements are being made for humanitarian and other safety related flights to use the airspace as required.
"The Government of Canada is making all efforts to minimize the impact of the restrictions on the travelling public," said Minister Collenette. "Travellers using Calgary International Airport on these days may encounter some delays. Transport Canada is working with aviation stakeholders to inform them about airspace restrictions and keep delays to a minimum."
"The RCMP, on behalf of the Government of Canada, has a commitment and an obligation to protect the safety and security of visiting leaders, delegates, lawful demonstrators, media representatives, security personnel and citizens at this important world event," said Minister MacAulay.
The Alberta aerodromes and heliports affected by the airspace restrictions include: Springbank, Banff, Black Diamond, Cochrane Heliport/Aerocopter, Clearwater, Didsbury, Kananaskis, Sundre, Turner Valley, and Turner Valley Heliport. In British Columbia, Elk Valley, Fairmont Hot Springs, Golden, and Invermere will be affected. The Government of Canada is making every effort to ensure all affected stakeholders and the public are aware of restrictions during the G8 Summit.
"The Department of National Defence will continue to work closely with the RCMP to provide expertise and support for the Summit," said Minister Eggleton. "The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the travelling public, world leaders attending the summit, and residents of the area. DND will provide support to the RCMP so that the Summit is a safe one."
– 30 –
Contacts:
RCMPMedia Relations Office(613) 993-2999
Media Liaison OfficeDepartment of National Defence(613) 996-2353/54After hours: (613) 792-2973
Peter CoylesCommunications, Transport Canada(613) 993-0055
Michael O'ShaughnessyMedia Relations CoordinatorG8 Summit Office1 (888) 316-2002
Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. Subscribe to news releases and speeches at www.tc.gc.ca/e-news and keep up-to-date on the latest from Transport Canada.
This news release may be made available in alternative formats for persons with visual disabilities.
