No. P017/97
For release September 3, 1997

SIGNING OF A LETTER OF INTENT FOR TRANSFER OF PITT MEADOWS AIRPORT TO THE PITT MEADOWS AIRPORT SOCIETY

PITT MEADOWS, B.C. -- Fisheries and Oceans Minister David Anderson, on behalf of Transport Minister David Collenette, today announced the signing of a Letter of Intent to enter into negotiations for the transfer of Pitt Meadows Airport to the Pitt Meadows Airport Society.

"The Pitt Meadows Airport Society is to be congratulated for joining the move towards a new era in airport management," said Mr. Anderson. "Having the airport run by local people who know its role in the community -- and its potential for growth -- will allow it to function in a more commercial and cost-effective manner."

Pitt Meadows Airport is classified as a Small airport, defined as having no regularly scheduled passenger service and serving local interests, such as general aviation and recreational flyers. Under the National Airports Policy, announced in July 1994, local interests are being offered the opportunity to assume ownership during a two-year period ending March 31, 1998.

Negotiations had been under way between the districts of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, however, both communities decided to form a society to better represent the interests of the community.

Transport Canada will continue to regulate the safe provision of air navigation facilities and services across the country. The department will also continue to ensure safety and security at Canadian airports through aviation regulation and airport certification processes.

"The National Airports Policy enables communities to take greater advantage of their airports, reduce costs, tailor levels of service to local demand, and attract new and different types of business," said Mr. Collenette. "Making better use of transportation infrastructure in this manner will ultimately provide a boost to trade, tourism and job creation."

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Contact:

Rod Nelson,
Communications, Vancouver,
(604) 666-1675

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