“The formation of the integrated authority, to be called the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, will ensure that Lower Mainland ports are more globally competitive and better positioned to capture a larger share of growing Asia-Pacific trade,” said Doug Butterworth, Chair of the North Fraser Port Authority.

“This decision is a major step forward in positioning the ports of the Lower Mainland as a key component of the Pacific Gateway Strategy,” said Vancouver Port Authority Chair George Adams. “An integrated port authority will strengthen our offering through improved planning and land use, coordinated marketing and branding, and a streamlined user interface for all of our stakeholders, be they domestic or international.”

“Minister Cannon and Transport Canada have been enormously supportive throughout the process to date,” said Peter Podovinikoff, Chair of the Fraser River Port Authority. “This is a new initiative for all of us and requires measured and thoughtful effort to ensure the transition is a smooth one that ultimately makes this Gateway stronger for Canada.”

The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority will operate under one appointed board and CEO, with operating divisions established to ensure a high level of service is maintained for all areas of port operations. Under the guidance of a Transition Committee, the work towards amalgamation of the three port authorities has already commenced, with completion expected before the end of 2007.

About the Vancouver Port Authority:
The Port of Vancouver, Canada's flagship port, trades more than $43 billion in goods with more than 90 trading economies annually. Port activities generate 69,200 jobs with $4 billion in Gross Domestic Product and $8.9 billion in economic output.

About the North Fraser Port Authority:
Port North Fraser is Canada’s largest shallow draft port and handles on average 17 million tonnes of cargo annually. The Port continues to contribute over $1 billion each year in Gross Domestic Product and provide employment for approximately 8,000 persons.

Fraser River Port Authority:
Fraser River Port is Canada’s largest fresh water port and Canada’s largest automobile port, encompassing 270 kilometres of shoreline along the Fraser River from Langley to the Strait of Georgia. The Port generates 16,100 direct local jobs and contributes $1.3 billion to Canada’s Gross Domestic Product.

For more information, please contact: