September 5, 2007

For Immediate Release
Canada’s New Government Funds Transit Security in Ontario

Mr. Mike Wallace, MP for Burlington, on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced $11,850,677 in funding to enhance transit security in Ontario. The Minister also announced the call for applications for the fourth round of funding under Transit-Secure, the Government of Canada's passenger rail and urban transit security contribution program.

The following funding is being provided: the Toronto Transit Commission will receive up to $6,429,750; Union Station will receive up to $4,913,552; OC Transpo will receive up to $451,125; and Durham Region will receive up to $56,250.

"Canada's New Government continues to make investments in Ontario's transportation security," said Minister Cannon. "Preparing for potential threats to our communities reinforces the measures already underway in these centres."

The $80-million application-based contribution program, launched in July 2006, is one of the programs included in the $115 million in funding announced by Prime Minister Harper for initial measures to enhance the security of Canada's passenger rail and urban transit operations. The program provides direct assistance to passenger rail and urban transit operators to further enhance their security measures and to be better equipped to address potential threats of terrorism.

Under round three of Transit-Secure, up to $19,067,586 will be provided to rail and urban transit operators in some of Canada's largest urban centers. Up to $712,500 will be provided to smaller operators to help them develop risk assessments and comprehensive security plans.

"The funding announced today will help transit operators in Toronto and other major centers, along with those in smaller communities like Durham, enhance their security systems," said Mr. Wallace.

Under the program, funding is provided on a cost-shared basis, with up to 75 per cent from the federal government and 25 per cent from the recipient. This funding is part of $1.4 billion in national security funding committed in Budget 2006 for a variety of security initiatives that will help protect Canadians and their communities, including $254 million for transportation security.

Details of the contribution program are available at www.tc.gc.ca/vigilance/sep/rail/Contribution_Program/menu.htm

For More Information

Mike Wallace, MP

Burlington

905-639-5757