$53 million in investments and a record year expected for 2012 - The shift to growth is well underway at the Port of Québec

QUÉBEC, May 31, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - The Québec Port Authority (QPA) today unveiled $53 million in funding committed or about to be allocated for 2012, following a shift that began last year to continue developing the Port and upgrade its facilities. The QPA experienced a banner year in 2011 with an 18% increase in cargo handled and is also getting ready for another record year in terms of both tonnage and international cruises. These announcements were made as part of the QPA's annual public meeting, where a new community relations committee was also unveiled.

"2011 allowed us to clearly identify the major challenges we're facing and make stakeholders aware of the need to take action to ensure the Port's sustainability," explained Mario Girard, QPA president and CEO. "The $53 million in joint funding from the Port and its operator partners is a good start, but there's still a lot left to do."

The funding will make it possible in particular to optimize the efficiency of the liquid and dry bulk terminals, which recorded significant tonnage increases in 2011.

In addition, the QPA board of directors is drawing up a glowing report of Mario Girard's first year at the helm of the QPA. "Everything is now set for a new era of growth. Mario Girard is the type of high calibre manager we were looking for, and we are convinced that he will deliver on the projects needed for the Port's development," said Serge Lebel, interim chair of the QPA board of directors.

Record year expected for 2012

After an as yet unparalleled year during which 28.9 million tonnes of cargo was handled, another record year is expected for 2012 at the Port of Québec. Tonnage is already up 22% compared to the same period last year. Cruises should also see an exceptional season in 2012 as nearly 110,500 cruise passengers are expected—a customer traffic record.

Community relations committee set up

Following a series of meetings held over the past year, the QPA also unveiled a new community relations committee consisting of about ten members from various groups. This committee's role will be to help enhance QPA projects by taking into account the public's concerns. "The Port will continue making the decisions necessary for its development, but the community relations committee will contribute a point of view that can help reduce irritants and better integrate projects within the community," explained Mario Girard.

The community relations committee will be chaired by Gaston Déry, president of Amis de la Vallée du St-Laurent. "Because the committee members are from the economic, environmental, and social spheres, I feel that everything is in place for a constructive and sustainable approach. That's why I'm excited to accept this position," said Gaston Déry.

About the Québec Port Authority

The Québec Port Authority is an autonomous shared governance organization constituted under the Canada Marine Act. According to a study conducted in 2007 by SECOR Consulting, the activities of the maritime and harbour sectors of the Québec maritime industry represent annual economic benefits of almost $800 million for Canada, tax revenues of close to $160 million for the various levels of government, and an essential contribution to supporting approximately 9,800 jobs. 

Anick Métivier
Assistant Director | Communications and Public Relations
Québec Port Authority
Tel.: [phone]
[email protected]