Vancouver, BC: The Vancouver Port Authority (VPA) commended the Federal Government's announcement today that it will commit $115 million in funding over three years to assist Canada's ports and terminal operators with the cost of strengthening their security systems and programs.

Captain Gordon Houston, President and Chief Executive Officer, Vancouver Port Authority, commented, "We're pleased with the Federal Government's commitment to help Canada's ports remain among the most reliable and secure in the world. Federal funding will help us efficiently and effectively address security requirements and ensure the continued security of port workers, visitors and communities in which we operate. We also wish to acknowledge the Canadian Coalition for Maritime Security for their efforts to raise the issue of security funding."

In response to international security concerns, the Government of Canada requires ports and port facilities to have approved security plans in place and operational by July 1, 2004. The VPA forecasts a total cost of $100 million or more for these security enhancements at the Port of Vancouver and is investing $12.8 million over a five-year period. It is estimated that terminal and facility operators will face costs of $250,000 to $2 million each, depending on the nature of their operations.

"The Port of Vancouver is striving to become one of the most secure international ports in the world and today's announcement only enhances our status as the port of choice on the west cost of North America," said Houston.

The Port of Vancouver is Canada's largest and most diversified port, trading $29 billion in goods with more than 90 trading economies each year. Port activities generate 62,000 jobs in total with $1.6 billion in Gross Domestic Product and $3.5 billion in economic output. Last year, 66.7 million tonnes were shipped through the Port of Vancouver.


For more information, please contact:

Anne McMullin,
Director, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs
Vancouver Port Authority
(604) 665-9069 (office)
(604) 665-9073 (fax)
(604) 218-1403 (cellular)
anne.mcmullin@portvancouver.com

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