Harper Government announces funding for short-sea shipping feasibility study in Port Alberni, British Columbia

OTTAWA, July 3, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Peter Van Loan, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, on behalf of the Honourable Ed Fast, Canada's Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, Dr. James Lunney, Member of Parliament for Nanaimo—Alberni, and Don Ferster, Chair of the Board, Port Alberni Port Authority, today announced funding for a Container Trans-Shipment and Short-Sea Shipping Feasibility Study in British Columbia.

"Our government is committed to helping Canadian exporters reach fast-growing Asia-Pacific markets by continuing to boost Canada's competitive advantages," said Minister Van Loan. "Studies such as this, explore innovative ways to manage future growth in the Asia-Pacific Gateway."

The Government of Canada is providing up to $225,000 through the APGCI Transportation Infrastructure Fund toward a Container Trans-Shipment and Short-Sea Shipping Feasibility Study at Port Alberni. Short-sea shipping involves the marine transportation of passengers and goods within and among Canada and the rest of North America. The study will identify potential market opportunities, as well as assess the viability of a container trans-shipment and short-sea shipping distribution centre in the Alberni Inlet.

"The Port Alberni Port Authority is very appreciative of the funding received under the Asia-Pacific Gateway Canada Initiative "TIF" program," said Mr. Ferster. "The ultimate goal of our study will be to increase the value of trade within the national transportation system."

"This study will provide a comprehensive analysis of short-sea shipping for this region," said Dr. Lunney. "Investments like these help create jobs and economic growth in local communities."

The APGCI is a key element of the Government of Canada's pro-trade plan to open new markets that increase Canadian exports and create jobs and prosperity. The federal government has invested $1.4 billion in infrastructure projects worth $3.5 billion in partnership with the four western provinces, municipalities and the private sector.

SOURCE: Transport Canada

Rudy Husny
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Ed Fast
Minister of International Trade and
Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway
613-992-7332

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055

Zoran Knezevic
Port Manager / CEO
Port Alberni Port Authority
250-723-5312

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