May 7, 2004
For Immediate Release

Canadian Ports Welcome Federal Funding for Port Security

The Chair of the Association of Canadian Port Authorities (ACPA) welcomes the announcement of funding for Canada Port Authorities and port facility operators by the federal government.

“The announcement of $115 million today shows the federal government is committed to ensuring that Canada’s ports are among the safest in the world,” said Al Soppitt, Chair of the Canadian Association of Port Authorities (ACPA) and President and CEO of the Saint John Port Authority. He further noted that, “Our Association has worked hard over the past two years with all stakeholders, including governments, to ensure that Canada’s ports fully comply with new international standards required by the International Maritime Organization. This new initiative ensures that enhanced security at Canada’s major ports will help sustain the tremendous growth in maritime trade that already exceeds $100 billion annually.”

Canada Port Authorities have already spent millions of dollars to enhance port security in and around ports from St. John’s to Prince Rupert. Canada’s major ports have worked diligently over the past two years to complete comprehensive security plans to tighten seaport security. “This recent announcement will now ensure full and effective implementation of those security plans and give Canada the most secure marine facilities in the world,” commented Al Soppit, Chair of the ACPA. The ACPA looks forward to continuing its ongoing work with the federal government and other stakeholders to strengthen marine facility security regulations under the Marine Transportation Security Act (MTSA).

The ACPA is pleased to strengthen its partnership with the federal government under this cost-shared funding arrangement for security plan implementation with 25 percent funded by ports and port facilities and 75 percent funded by the federal government. These funds will be used for such important initiatives as increased surveillance, fencing, lighting, access control and more. This will ensure that Canada’s ports are fully compliant with the IMO’s International Ship and Port-Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

For more information please contact:
Gary LeRoux
Executive Director
Association of Canadian Port Authorities

Phone: (613) 232-2036

The Association of Canadian Port Authorities was founded in 1958 and groups together ports and harbours and related marine interests into one, national association. The ACPA is the pre-eminent Association for the advocacy and advancement of the Canadian Port Industry. ACPA members contribute greatly to the local, regional and national economy of Canada with over $100 billion worth of goods handled annually.

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