Transport Canada to mull over Lower Mainland port integration

VANCOUVER, — Federal Minister of Transport, Lawrence Cannon, has accepted a report recommending the integration of the Fraser River Port Authority, North Fraser Port Authority and the Vancouver Port Authority, to form a single Canada Port Authority.

“The formation of the new authority, to be called the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, will ensure that Lower Mainland ports are more globally competitive and better positioned to capture a larger share of growing Asia-Pacific trade,” said Doug Butterworth, chair of the North Fraser Port Authority.

The new authority would operate under a newly appointed board and CEO, with operating divisions established to ensure a high level of service is maintained for all areas of port operations. Under the guidance of a Transition Committee, the work towards amalgamation of the three port authorities has already commenced, with completion expected before the end of 2007.

“This decision is a major step forward in positioning the ports of the Lower Mainland as a key component of the Pacific Gateway Strategy,” said VPA Chair George Adams. “An integrated port authority will strengthen our offering through improved planning and land use, coordinated marketing and branding, and a streamlined user interface for all of our stakeholders, be they domestic or international.”

The full report — Global Competitor, Community Partner: An Integrated Port Entity for the Lower Mainland — will be made available on the respective port websites.