The project is being funded with $400,000 under the Canada/Nova Scotia COOPERATION Agreement to Promote Private Sector Participation in Municipal Infrastructure. The Halifax Regional Municipality is also providing a $200,000 repayable loan to the HIAA.
The announcement was made by the Honourable Richard W. Mann, Minister of the Nova Scotia Economic Renewal Agency, Geoff Regan, Member of Parliament for Halifax West, on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Secretary of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Veterans), Walter Fitzgerald, Mayor of the Halifax Regional Municipality and Bernard Miller, Chair of the Halifax International Airport Authority.
"These studies will determine what role a public-private partnership can play in the future operation of the Halifax International Airport," said Mr. Mann.
"The consultants will investigate the key issues involved with a potential transfer of the facility to the HIAA, including an evaluation of the possible costs and of the savings that could result from increased operational efficiencies," said Mr. Regan.
"The Halifax Regional Municipality is supportive of the cautious approach adopted by the HIAA," said Mayor Fitzgerald. "Extensive and diligent investigations will be conducted to ensure that the Airport can be operated in an affordable manner in the future."
"Halifax International Airport represents one of Nova Scotia's principal levers for future economic development," said Mr. Miller. "The Authority's mandate is to realise the airport's full potential. Prior to taking over the airport the authority must ensure commercial viability and be structured to ensure a safe and efficient air transportation centre for all Nova Scotians. The studies being commissioned by the authority will build on our current knowledge to ensure we fully identify all factors necessary for future success."
The Halifax Regional Municipality is the local partner for the project and the Halifax International Airport Authority will be the contracting agency. The HIAA will develop terms of reference and will call for proposals and contracts for the five studies to examine future capital, environmental and operating costs, as well as revenue enhancement potential and options for future management.
The Canada/Nova Scotia COOPERATION Agreement to Promote Private Sector Participation in Municipal Infrastructure is managed by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency on behalf of the Government of Canada and by the Nova Scotia Economic Renewal Agency on behalf of the Province of Nova Scotia. The Agreement provides assistance to Nova Scotia municipalities to investigate public/private partnerships to develop infrastructure or deliver municipal services.
Contact:
Grant Brennan
Program Director
Canada/Nova Scotia COOPERATION Agreement
to Promote Private Sector Participation in Municipal Infrastructure
(902) 424-6211
Neil Raynor
Executive Director
Halifax International Airport Authority
(902) 873-5502