Canada's Transport Minister emphasizes need for strong partnerships at Shipping Federation of Canada's Annual Conference

MONTREAL, May 29, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, today addressed the Shipping Federation of Canada at their annual conference about recent free trade agreements, measures taken with regard to marine liability, the World Class Tanker Safety Regime, air emission standards and the importance of innovation and skills training for the marine community.

Minister Raitt emphasized the importance of safe, secure, environmentally responsible and efficient marine transportation to Canada's international trade and economic growth. Noting the government's robust trade agenda, the minister addressed the benefits and improved global competitiveness to be achieved through trade agreements, including the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement - Canada's first with an Asian market - which will generate thousands of new jobs in Canada and provide Canadian businesses and workers with a gateway to Asia.

After highlighting recently announced actions under the World Class Tanker Safety System, such as the plan to establish Area Response Planning in four areas across Canada, and the introduction of regulatory amendments to strengthen Canada's domestic Ship-Source Oil Pollution Fund, Minister Raitt also addressed the alignment of Canada's air emission standards with the U.S. - through the adoption of strict environmental standards to reduce air emissions from ships navigating in Canadian waters - and measures to prevent other ship-source pollution.

Quote

"Strong partnerships across the transportation sector, and with organizations like the Shipping Federation of Canada, will contribute to a safe, secure and sustainable marine industry, which in turn helps to support trade and economic growth, create jobs and support Canadian communities and families."

The Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport

Associated Link

• Shipping Federation of Canada

SOURCE: Transport Canada

Ashley Kelahear
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
613-991-0700

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055

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