No. P019/97
For release November 4, 1997

AGREEMENT SIGNED TO TRANSFER BOUNDARY BAY AIRPORT TO LOCAL CONTROL

DELTA, B.C. -- Hedy Fry, Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women) and MP for Vancouver Centre, on behalf of Transport Minister David Collenette, today announced the signing of an agreement to transfer Boundary Bay Airport to the Corporation of Delta, with the hand-over of the airport scheduled for December 2, 1997.

"The Corporation of Delta is to be congratulated for joining the move towards a new era in airport management," said Dr. Fry. "With the transfer of ownership, the airport is in a better position to respond quickly to the needs of the community."

Boundary Bay Airport is one of 31 Small airports, 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 of Small airports.

"The National Airports Policy enables communities to take greater advantage of their airports and help stimulate local economic development," said Mr. Collenette. "Making better use of transportation infrastructure in this manner will ultimately provide a boost to trade, tourism and job creation."

Negotiations to transfer the Boundary Bay Airport began October 31, 1996 following the signing of a Letter of Intent by the Corporation of Delta and Transport Canada.

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

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Contact:

Rod Nelson
Communications, Vancouver
(604) 666-1675

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