Transport Canada informs that the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, has spoken of the important role Canada's marine ports play in supporting trade and economic growth in a speech to the 56th annual conference of the Association of Canadian Port Authorities, hosted by the Belledune Port Authority.
Building on this year's conference theme of 'Anchors Away', Minister Raitt highlighted the opportunities and challenges in global shipping for Canada's ports, while promoting the importance of women – their contributions and potential for shaping the future of the transportation industry.
Minister Raitt announced changes that will allow all Canada Port Authorities (CPAs) to enter into long-term lease agreements and use the lands they manage to generate increased revenues to support future port plans. This change is part of a commitment to ensure all CPAs have consistent lease terms.
She further noted recent government efforts supporting port development, sustainability and efficiency: "Be it infrastructure investments under Canada's Gateways or Canada's $53 billion New Building Canada Plan, amendments to the Marine Transportation Security Regulations to bring greater clarity and consistency for marine operators, the introduction of Canada's World-Class Tanker Safety System to ensure we can transport our goods in a safe and environmentally responsible manner, or the independent review of the Canada Transportation Act, currently underway, which will look at how we can improve port governance and service delivery models as well as how to support a sustainable northern transportation system."
It was added that the Association of Canadian Port Authorities is dedicated to the advocacy and advancement of Canadian ports. The conference brings together groups representing ports, shippers and related marine interests.
Canadian port facts
• Canada's transportation system includes more than 240 marine ports and harbours, which provide access to three oceans and the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System (2012 data).
• Canada's transportation system supported the export of approximately $471.4 billion in Canadian merchandise in 2013.