April 06, 2009
Prince George, British Colombia
Today, the Honourable Jay Hill, Member of Parliament for Prince George-Peace River and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced a Government of Canada investment to increase economic opportunities in northern British Columbia's air cargo industry.
"The Prince George Airport is strategically positioned to be a major international gateway for passenger and cargo traffic," said Minister Hill. "Together, we are building on our Government's previous investments to create new opportunities and a stronger economy for Northern British Columbians."
The Prince George Airport Authority (PGAA) will coordinate and implement a marketing plan to take advantage of its recent runway expansion and promote Northern British Columbia as an international trade corridor. The project will promote the airport as an air carrier refueling stop, a backhaul for placing cargo on planes transiting the airport and a cargo transfer site. Federal support will also help PGAA design and produce marketing material and tools including brochures, a video, trade show equipment and a redesigned website. Furthermore, the initiative will involve attendance and presentations at major North American air cargo, air freight and transportation events. Activities will translate into economic opportunities for the airport and region by way of increased international aircraft fuel stops and potential for more traditional airfreight business.
"We are honored to have the support of the Federal Government as we move forward with our marketing initiatives. This funding announcement allows us to remain competitive within our industry, and will help us realize our mission in becoming an economic stimulus for Northern British Columbia", said Jim Blake, Chair Prince George Airport Authority.
Today's $227,550 investment through Western Economic Diversification Canada builds on the recent participation of the Government of Canada at the grand opening of the expanded Prince George airport runway, which received an $11 million contribution from the Mountain Pine Beetle program's Airport Improvement Initiative. The Prince George Airport Authority also purchased a snow-clearing vehicle, will add a cargo refuelling pad and is making ongoing improvements to the lighting and navigational aid systems.
Western Economic Diversification Canada works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and represents the interests of western Canadians in national decision making.
For additional information, contact:
Donna Howes
Communications Manager, British Columbia
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: 604-666-1318
Cell: 604-505-6616
Mike Davis
Manager, Communications & Business Development
YXS- Prince George Airport Authority
Tel: 250-963-2413
Cell: 250-640-0886
WD Toll-Free Number:1 888 338-WEST (9378)
Website: WD is online at www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
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