Thank you, Chair.
Thank you for the invitation to speak with the transport committee about port modernization. This topic is both timely and important as we seek ways to operate more efficiently and effectively and with greater resilience.
The Toronto Port Authority has served Toronto's harbour for over 150 years. Many Canadian cities have grown up around their ports, and Toronto is no exception. We continue many of the traditions from those early days as well, including our “top hat” ceremony, where we celebrate the first saltie arrival within the harbour.
While the Toronto Port Authority shares many similarities with the 16 other Canada port authorities, it stands apart in one key way. Under the Canada Marine Act, we are the only port authority that also owns and operates an airport. Although there has been much debate recently about the airport's growth and future, today's focus is on the port and its modernization opportunities.
The Toronto Port Authority operates as a gateway for imports, bringing in over two million metric tons of bulk materials each year to fuel the local economy. Key products include sugar from Central America and South America, primarily used for the food and beverage industry; salt for keeping Toronto roads safe during the winter; and cement, aggregate, and products like rebar for local construction projects.
Utilizing the port for regional deliveries has eliminated roughly 51,000 trucks annually from congested roads and highways. Marine cargo and vessel vehicles directly support nearly 700 jobs at the Port of Toronto and generate close to $500 million in economic activity.
Beyond cargo, the port also acts as a turnaround destination for a Great Lakes cruise industry. In 2026, we anticipate nearly 50 itineraries from five cruise lines, bringing over 20,000 passengers to Toronto. As a turnaround port, passengers either embark or disembark, often spending a couple of days, which contributes to local tourism as well.
Despite being limited to 52 acres along the harbourfront, we see great potential for growth and to further boost Toronto's economy. This was recognized by the City of Toronto in their 10-year economic action plan, “Sidewalks to Skylines”, and the mayor's recent economic action plan as well.
Although the federal government does not directly protect employment land, a clear statement of principles and directions could demonstrate support for preserving areas that create jobs and facilitate national trade. There are several specific actions the government can take to assist and modernize ports, both in Toronto and nationwide. I've categorized them into four areas: containers within the Great Lakes corridor; upgrading aging infrastructure; access to capital, which we've heard from a few of the other witnesses as well; and improvements to governance.
Last year's budget recognized that bringing containers into the Great Lakes could build local resilience and drive economic growth by bringing containers to where the goods are actually required. The St. Lawrence and Great Lakes region, spanning two provinces and eight states, is the world's third-largest economy. Enhancing port operations and efficiency in this region would significantly contribute to economic prosperity. The federal government could also look to address aging infrastructure, some of which is nearly 100 years old and is in desperate need of replacement or repair.
Another improvement could be easier access for ports to get capital. Airport authorities can invest based on their credit ratings and access to debt funding, but port authorities must come to the government and obtain approval for increasing borrowing limits. This process involves requests to Transport Canada, co-operation from Finance and then final approval from Treasury Board, all of which is time-consuming and can take months and sometimes years.
Another area burdened by bureaucracy is board appointments. Timely federal appointments are essential for an effective board of directors.
These are just some of the areas where I think the government can play a key role. I welcome further discussion during the Q and A.
Thank you for your attention.