CATSA News Release

For Immediate Release

May 4, 2006

Budget 2006: $133 million for the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA)

OTTAWA – The President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), Jacques Duchesneau, is pleased with the additional funding for CATSA, as announced in the federal government's 2006 Budget.

"The security of Canadians and of Canada is also our priority and I want to reassure Canadians that CATSA is committed to ensuring an effective air transport security system in Canada," said Mr. Duchesneau.

The air transportation industry and the number of passengers have been growing for a number of years now. Since 2002, passenger volume has cumulatively increased by more than 17% and is expected to grow at 3% to 4% annually, over the next five years. As a result, CATSA will need to adjust its operations in order to protect the travelling public.

According to Mr. Duchesneau, "The $133 million over two years will allow CATSA to continue to increase its standards, invest in specific projects that will make our security system more effective, and maintain Canada's position as a world leader in air security."

Ongoing collaborative efforts with its partners, including Transport Canada, ensures that CATSA remains several steps ahead of the emerging terrorist threat and that the appropriate security measures are in place.

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Contact: CATSA Communications, 613-998-4527 http://www.catsa.gc.ca