Ottawa - November 6, 2008 - The Board of Directors of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Kevin McGarr to the position of President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The appointment was effective September 15, 2008.
"CATSA's Board of Directors is pleased to hand over the reigns of the organization to a candidate of Kevin McGarr's calibre. He possesses an intimate knowledge of CATSA as well as excellent management qualities. His experience in both the public and private sectors will help lead CATSA into another phase of its maturity as it strengthens its position as a world leader in the field of aviation security," states Mr. Ian Glen, Chairman of CATSA's Board of Directors.
Kevin McGarr worked for over 25 years with the Montreal Urban Community Police Service, where he distinguished himself in the fight against organized crime. In recognition of his efforts to combat organized crime, the Governor General awarded
Mr.
McGarr the Meritorious Service Medal in 1997. After a term in the private sector, he joined
in January 2003 as a Director.
Mr.
McGarr was then promoted to Vice-President, Risk and Quality, Vice-President and Chief Technology Officer and later Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer. Kevin McGarr holds a Master's Degree in Business Administration in the International Aviation Program at the John Molson School of Business of Concordia University.
About CATSA
CATSA, established on April 1, 2002, is a federal Crown corporation that operates on a not-for-profit basis. It is responsible for the provision of key aviation security services such as pre-board screening of passengers and their belongings; random screening of non-passengers; and the acquisition, deployment and maintenance of explosives detection equipment at airports. CATSA is also responsible for the development and implementation of a restricted area identity card incorporating biometric features.
CATSA Communications
Mathieu Larocque
Direct: 613-998-4527
Cell: 613-291-7496
mathieu.larocque@catsa.gc.ca
