OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney says his government is open to selling public assets if the proceeds could help fund new infrastructure.
The November federal budget and April spring economic statement both mention exploring new ownership options for the country’s federally owned airports.
A transport ministry discussion paper published last week on ports and trade suggests the government is also open to amalgamating “some key ports” while selling others.
Carney says he doesn’t see selling ports as “a top priority” but the government will be transparent about plans to “recycle” existing assets to fund new projects.
Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said late last month the government is in the early stages of exploring sales of airports, with the goal of improving the passenger experience and efficiency of air travel.
The minister added he wasn’t sure if a decision had been made on whether money from any airport sale would go toward financing the government’s $25 billion Canada Strong Fund, which was announced just before the spring economic update.
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