I am pleased to present the Departmental Performance Report on Transport Canada's progress on the goals set out in our 2011-12 Report on Plans and Priorities.
We have many accomplishments to be proud of. The Government's top priority remains a strong economy, and our Department has a vital contribution to make as we keep Canada's transportation system efficient, clean, safe and secure.
Transport Canada has played an important role in supporting the next phase of our Government's Economic Action Plan. We are modernizing Canada's infrastructure with unprecedented investments: from new passenger rail stations, to better roads and transit, to airport and marine projects. These investments in efficiency and innovation support the economy, create jobs and growth, and enhance trade.
A project that is particularly dear to my heart is the new bridge for the St. Lawrence. This vital corridor for the movement of people and goods will create thousands of jobs and benefit, not only the Montreal region, but Canada as a whole for years to come. I am also proud of the progress we have made in our strategy to ensure that modern and efficient infrastructure is in place at Windsor-Detroit – Canada's busiest trade corridor. We are making major funding available for a new Detroit River Crossing, and for upgrades to the Windsor-Detroit tunnel area.
Another highlight of the past year was Transport Canada's work on ballast water. This highly successful clean water initiative was achieved through close coordination with several agencies and our U.S. counterparts. Transport Canada led the way forward to ensure both smooth trade flows and protection of our waters from polluting discharges and alien species.
Our Department is constantly working to keep Canadians safe. Fatalities from accidents are down, and the risks from the transportation of dangerous goods are being reduced. New tools include more rigorous and consistent training and shared planning and expertise. New marine safety regulations require certain large passenger and cargo vessels to have voyage data recorders. Similar to an airplane's black box, the equipment captures critical information that will aid accident investigations and enhance safety.
From specific programs to wide-reaching operations, Transport Canada has strengthened its regulatory and oversight role in security of all transportation modes. For example, significant progress has been made in the security of air cargo, working with international partners.
In keeping with Transport Canada's role in building a stronger economy, we have continued to promote and expand our international Gateways, to boost trade and bring more prosperity to the country. This spirit of international cooperation is also seen in our Beyond the Border Action Plan, which features joint initiatives with the United States to ensure the security of our borders while facilitating trade.
As Transport Canada celebrates its 75th anniversary, we can be proud of the progress outlined in this report; we will continue to build on this solid foundation for the future.
The Honourable Denis Lebel,
P.C.
,
M.P.
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure
and Communities