No. H 250/07
For release - December 21, 2007
OTTAWA — The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced the amalgamation of the British Columbia (B.C.) Lower Mainland port authorities of Fraser River, North Fraser and Vancouver. With the issuance of a certificate of amalgamation by the Government of Canada, the three ports will continue as one port authority and will be called the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority as of January 1, 2008.
"The integration of the Lower Mainland ports is a key policy measure that will position these ports to enhance investment opportunities in the region," said Minister Cannon. "It will contribute to our competitiveness in the global market by maximizing port efficiencies and optimizing port planning."
On May 30, 2007, changes to the Port Authorities Management Regulations governing the process for amalgamation were published in the Canada Gazette, Part II. The Government of Canada issued a certificate of intent to amalgamate the three ports in June 2007. Following publication of the certificate in the Canada Gazette, Part I, on June 16, 2007, the government placed notices in B.C. newspapers during the week of June 25 to July 1, 2007. This began a 30-day public comment period as part of a larger strategy pursued by Transport Canada and the port authorities concerned to actively engage stakeholders and to seek their views on the proposed amalgamation.
Having received the support of stakeholders, the government has proceeded with the amalgamation. "With the Vancouver Fraser Port now a reality, another key building block of the Asia-Pacific Gateway is falling into place," said the Honourable David Emerson, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Pacific Gateway and the Vancouver-Whistler Olympics. "The amalgamation will allow us to better leverage this important asset and make it a preferred port of call for shippers from Asia."
Nineteen Canada Port Authorities (CPAs) make up Canada's national port system. The CPAs are non-share capital corporations incorporated under the 1998 Canada Marine Act that are of strategic significance to Canada's trade. Their effective operation contributes to our global competitiveness.
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Contacts:
Karine White
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, Ottawa
613-991-0700
Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055
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