Reforming Canadian ports

Abstract

For several years, Canada has taken steps to commercialize the transportation industry. The final link in the chain is the rationalization and reform of the marine sector. A survey conducted in 1993-94 found conflicting views about the need for reform between the port managers and others involved in the marine transportation sector. Recommendations based on the survey disappointed many observers of the port system who were hoping for sweeping changes. In December 1995, the Minister of Transport outlined a national marine policy. The radical approach sought to commercialize Canadian ports by: establishing major ports as not-for-profit Canadian port authorities as federal agencies; eliminating the Canada Ports Corporation; divesting regional and local ports to provinces, municipalities, or community organizations; and retaining responsibility for remote ports. With current shuffling in the government, it is expected that a modified port reform package--one that reflects the earlier recommendations--will be adopted. This paper evaluates Canadian port reform including the proposed port rationalization process.