Minister Raitt discusses safe and efficient marine transportation at the 2013 World Maritime Day Observance Conference in New York

OTTAWA, Oct. 30, 2013 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport spoke to participants at the 2013 World Maritime Day Observance Conference in New York about Canada's commitment to safe, secure and sustainable marine practices. The event was hosted by the North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) and the United States Coast Guard.

"Canada has had a strong working relationship with the NAMEPA since 2008 and we are delighted to join you in observing World Maritime Day," said Minister Raitt. "Moreover, we were pleased to be named recipient of NAMEPA's 2013 Government Agency Marine Environment Protection Award."

This award is given in recognition of an individual or organization's efforts on behalf of preserving the marine environment as exemplified by a commitment to a program which has specific objectives set for environmental performance and improvement, and which is innovative and goes beyond minimum environmental compliance.

NAMEPA is an independent, marine industry-led association which engages maritime businesses, government and the public to "Save our Seas" by promoting sound environmental practices. NAMEPA operates as a non-governmental organization committed to preserving the marine environment through educating seafarers, port communities and students about the need and strategies for protecting this important global resource.

SOURCE: Transport Canada

Ashley Kelahear
Senior Communications Advisor
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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