Canada's new government invests over $716,000 in marine security projects in Ontario

Twenty projects aimed at enhancing security at ports and domestic ferry services in Ontario will receive funding
under the Marine Security Contribution Program. This announcement was made today by Mr. Mike Wallace, Member of Parliament for Burlington, on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.
This round of funding will provide up to $716,671 to four port facilities and a domestic ferry service in Ontario. The funds will be used for security enhancements such as surveillance equipment, dockside and perimeter security, command, control and communications equipment, and training.

"Ontario shares the prime inland navigation route by water into the heart of North America," said Mr. Wallace. "Enhancing the security of our national transportation system not only increases safety and security, but also helps maintain a healthy economy by facilitating trade, which benefits all Canadians."

"Ensuring the safety and security of Canadians is a priority for Canada's New Government," said Minister Cannon. "Today's funding will enable ports and domestic ferry services to make necessary improvements to the security of their operations, which will ultimately help ensure Canada's transportation system remains secure and efficient."

The five-year, $115-million program is helping Canada's ports, marine facilities and domestic ferry services to modernize and strengthen their security systems and programs, helping them meet the requirements of the Marine Transportation Security Regulations and continue to comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.

"This funding is testimony to our new government's commitment to beef up marine security," said the Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety. "We are taking concrete actions to make our borders smart and secure, which is critical to the safety of our communities."