The Government of Canada announced an agreement in principle for the transfer, as of 30 March 2020, of the ports of Matane, Gaspé, Rimouski and Gros-Cacouna to the Government of Quebec, under the Port Facility Transfer Program. This change is expected to contribute to the sustainability of these facilities, which contribute to economic prosperity and job creation in the communities and regions they serve.
The Government of Canada will provide $163 M for the four ports. This includes a $148.8M grant to the Province to support the future costs of operating and maintaining the ports, the balance representing investments in specific projects and other costs to be incurred by Transport Canada prior to their transfer.
In addition to the commercial docks, the transfer includes buildings and storage areas, breakwaters at the Matane and Gros-Cacouna ports and a spur pier at the Port of Rimouski.
The transfer of these facilities gives the Government of Quebec and other private businesses the green light to invest in these communities, which will greatly contribute to the commercial and tourism development in the region, and will lead to enviable economic benefits for regional populations.
…explained Mr. Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport.
The St. Lawrence River has always been at the heart of Quebec’s economic, social and cultural development. In 2014, we made the commitment to develop its enormous potential in a sustainable way by providing Quebec with its first maritime strategy. In recent years, more than 10,000 jobs have been created throughout Quebec and port cities have developed in our regions. Today, by taking possession of our commercial ports, these strategic assets, we are giving Quebec a new leverage.
…added Philippe Couillard, Premier of Quebec.
The Ports Asset Transfer Program, launched in April 2015, is aimed at facilitating the transfer of the 50 remaining port facilities from Transport Canada’s inventory to other entities. The Program aims to sell or transfer Transport Canada-administered port facilities to interested parties, including crown corporations and other federal departments, provincial and municipal governments, non-profit organizations, the general public and indigenous groups.
Since the introduction of the National Marine Policy in 1995, the Government of Canada has transferred the ownership and operation of 500 port facilities to interested parties across the country.
