Prime Minister Witnesses Signing of Canada-Ireland Transport Agreement

"The signing of this agreement on transportation marks a first in the Canada-Ireland relationship," said the Prime Minister. "We look forward to working with our Irish counterparts to identify projects and share experiences for the benefit of both of our peoples."

The Canada Ireland Memorandum of Understanding on Technical Cooperation in Transportation identifies areas of cooperation between Transport Canada and Ireland's Departments of Public Enterprise, Marine and Natural Resources, and Environment and Local Government. Irish officials have expressed interest in Canada's experience and approach to topics such as rail safety, air navigation, aviation contingency planning, road safety, and Intelligent Transport Systems.

Signing for the Irish government was Minister of State at the Department of Public Enterprise Joe Jacob, and for Canada, International Trade Minister Sergio Marchi, who is accompanying the Prime Minister and leading a trade and business delegation to Ireland.

For further information

PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555

Media Relations Office Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (613) 995-1874

Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Technical Cooperation in Transportation, Canada and Ireland will initiate activities to enhance the overall safety of public transportation systems. The MOU will facilitate new avenues of cooperation in the Aviation, Marine and Urban Transportation areas, encourage the sharing of expertise and allow for the participation of the Canadian and Irish public and private sector.

Activities under this MOU will be determined by a joint Canadian-Irish Transportation Committee and described in an Annual Work Plan. The Committee may consider initiatives in the Surface, Air and Marine Transportation modes.

Canadians at home will benefit from the best of Irish and Canadian technology and know-how in addressing issues of transportation safety.