advertisement

---

The Canadian government recently took the first step toward merging three British Columbia lower mainland port authorities into one entity.

The government issued a certificate of intent to combine the Fraser River, North Fraser and Vancouver port authorities. The merged organization — which could begin operating in early 2008 — would be called the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority.

“Integration of these ports … could enhance Canada’s competitiveness in the global trade environment, and may be the most effective means of maximizing port efficiencies and optimizing port planning,” said Lawrence Cannon, Canada’s minister of transport, infrastructure and communities, in a prepared statement.

The government plans soon to publish a notice of the certificate and begin a 30-day public comment period on the merger.

Canadian National Railway Co., Canadian Pacific Railway, BNSF Railway Co. and Southern Railway of British Columbia provide rail and intermodal connections to the three ports.