Competitive transportation system crucial for global trade and tourism - Minister Raitt speaks to the Toronto Region Board of Trade

TORONTO, Oct. 17, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, today addressed Toronto business leaders to highlight the steps being taken by the Government of Canada to ensure Canada's transportation network is adapting and modernizing in order to support global trade now and in the years ahead.

Speaking to the Toronto Region Board of Trade, Minister Raitt outlined the important investments made in strategic rail, road, port, and air facilities, through the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative, the Gateways and Border Crossings Fund and the New Building Canada Fund.

The Minister invited the audience to participate in the current review of the Canada Transportation Act, being led by the Honourable David Emerson. This review will help ensure that the national transportation system continues to meet the country's needs and support future economic growth by increasing the competitive potential of Canadian businesses.

Minister Raitt also highlighted the important role played by the air transportation sector as an economic enabler, noting that strong air connections are crucial to moving time-sensitive and high-value cargo and people, contribute to greater foreign investment and attract companies. Minister Raitt drew attention to the record number of air agreements established or expanded last year as well as the equally impressive number of trade agreements signed or negotiated, among them the Canada-European Union economic and trade agreement.

Quick Facts

• Air transportation directly employs more than 140,000 Canadians, and contributes some 35 billion dollars to the country's Gross Domestic Product.  
• Canada has concluded new or expanded air transport agreements with more than 80 countries.
• The Canada Transportation Act Review was launched on June 25, 2014, and the chair, the Honourable David Emerson, will submit findings and recommendations to the Minister of Transport no later than December 2015.

Quote

"To prosper in today's global economy, we rely on a strong, safe and competitive transportation network in air, marine and rail. Our government is committed to working with its Canadian and international partners to build innovative transportation systems that connect Canadians to each other and to the world."

The Honourable Lisa Raitt
Minister of Transport

Associated Links

Minister Raitt highlights importance of international trade and reliable transportation infrastructure in remarks at Toronto Region Board of Trade

Minister Raitt launches review of Canada's transportation legislation

Canada Transportation Act Review – Discussion Paper

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SOURCE: Transport Canada

Jana Régimbal, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, Ottawa, 613-991-0700; Media Relations, Transport Canada, Ottawa, 613-993-0055