Montréal, June 29, 2015 ‒ The Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal applauds the Maritime Strategy announced today by the Premier of Quebec, Mr. Philippe Couillard, who was joined by the Minister for Transport and the Implementation of the Maritime Strategy, Mr. Jean D’Amour, the Minister of Transport and Minister responsible for the Montréal region, Mr. Robert Poëti, several other ministers, and the Mayor of Montréal and President of the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal, Mr. Denis Coderre. This governmental plan will help strengthen Montréal’s position in the global transportation and logistics chain, and provide better access to international markets for companies in Quebec and its metropolis.
“The Maritime Strategy gives the metropolis a prominent position, representative of the major role it plays in the transportation of goods, and its strategic location in North America. It will equip Quebec and its metropolis with the necessary means to face increasingly fierce competition from ports along the eastern U.S. seaboard,” stated Michel Leblanc, President and CEO of the Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal.
A strategy that emphasizes access to international markets
“With massive investments that will notably allow for the improvement of maritime transportation infrastructures, the Strategy will make it easier for our SMEs to gain access to international markets. The entry into force of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between the European Union and Canada will bring an increase in container entries and exits on the seaway. It had become urgent for us to give ourselves the means to effectively meet this growth, which will be beneficial to businesses and to the city’s economy,” continued Michel Leblanc.
Logistics hubs necessary for Montréal’s commercial development
“The establishment of complementary logistics centres on several sites in the metropolitan region responds to requests expressed by the business community. We are especially satisfied with the Quebec government’s support of the development of hubs in Vaudreuil-Soulanges and in Contrecoeur. These sites offer a number of advantages that can attract major distribution centres to the city,” declared Michel Leblanc.
Awaiting the federal government for the Iberville Passenger Terminal and the Alexandra Pier
“We commend the Government of Quebec, the Ville de Montréal, and the Montreal Port Authority for having confirmed their financial participation in the reconstruction of the Iberville Passenger Terminal and the Alexandra Pier. This 78 million dollar project will be part of the legacy of Montréal’s 375th anniversary. At about 18 months from the first celebrations of 2017, however, the federal government has still not confirmed its financial support for this important project. Less than four months from the federal election, the Board of Trade is asking all political parties to make a decision on these investments, which are necessary for the development of the cruise market and tourism industry in Canada’s second-largest city,” added Michel Leblanc.
A strategy that will allow for the creation of thousands of jobs
“The Maritime Strategy will contribute to the economic development of Quebec and its metropolis, as it will allow for the creation of thousands of jobs. We can only applaud the Quebec government and all of the key stakeholders that collaborated on the preparation of this strategy, notably the Port of Montreal and CargoM, Montréal’s metropolitan logistics and transportation cluster,” concluded Michel Leblanc.
About the Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal
The Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal is made up of over 7,000 members. Its mission is to act as the voice of Montreal’s business community and to promote the city’s prosperity. It is involved in key areas of economic development, advocating a philosophy of action based on engagement, credibility, proactivity, collaboration, and innovation. The Board of Trade also offers a range of specialized services to individuals and to businesses of all sizes to help support their growth at home and abroad.
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Source:
Michelle LLambias Meunier
Advisor, Media Relations
Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal
Phone: 514 871-4000, extension 4042
mllambias@ccmm.qc.ca
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