Minister Garneau announces government's intent to amalgamate Oshawa and Hamilton port authorities

OTTAWA, Feb. 5, 2019 /CNW/ - The ports of Oshawa and Hamilton play an important role in southern Ontario. They link our businesses to global markets and provide jobs to surrounding middle-class families. The Government of Canada is taking action to ensure these ports remain competitive.

Today, the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, announced the Government of Canada's intent to amalgamate the Oshawa and Hamilton port authorities to form a new entity. This action is being taken to improve port efficiencies and planning in the region. A certificate of intent to amalgamate, which formally announces the Government's intent, will be published in the Canada Gazette, Part I on February 9, 2019.

The amalgamation represents an opportunity to take advantage of emerging business opportunities and to increase economic growth and develop the supply chain in this densely populated region. The integration of port activities in Oshawa and Hamilton is expected to enhance investment and trade opportunities, and contribute to Canada's global competitiveness.

The publication of the certificate of intent in the Canada Gazette, Part I will mark the beginning of a 30 day consultation period. Interested parties will have until March 11, 2019 to submit comments. Following the consultation period, the Government may decide to confirm the amalgamation through the publication of a certificate of amalgamation in the Canada Gazette, Part II.

Quotes

"Combining both port authorities together would allow the new entity to support growth and enhance the Southern Ontario region's connectivity to global markets. The Government of Canada is committed to the long-term sustainability of port operations in the region".

The Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport

Quick Facts

    --  The Oshawa Port Authority was established in 2012, and the Hamilton Port
        Authority in 2001.
    --  The Oshawa and Hamilton port authorities carry similar commodities
        including steel, project cargo and bulk cargo such as fertilizers,
        asphalt and grain.
    --  Cargo handled at both ports produces over $6 billion in economic
        activity and 4500 direct and indirect jobs.
    --  The amalgamation is directly aligned with Transportation 2030, a vision
        for Canada's transportation system that will contribute directly to
        economic growth for the middle class.

Associated Links

    --  Proposed Amalgamation of Oshawa and Hamilton Port Authorities
    --  Transportation 2030

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SOURCE Transport Canada