Mr. Speaker, today the Vancouver International Airport Authority celebrates the opening of its new international terminal building. This event marks a significant milestone for YVR, as the airport is known locally. In less than four years the authority has made the airport North America's premier Asia-Pacific gateway without government funds, subsidies or guarantees.
YVR has been an economic boon to the greater Vancouver area. It employs 17,000 people, and that number is projected to grow by 2,000 over the next four years.
This has been a win-win situation for everyone. The consumer, the airlines, the employees and even the federal government have benefited from YVR's privatization and local management. All this
without the scandal that has plagued the proposed sale of Toronto's Pearson airport.
The Liberal government should take a lesson from YVR. Privatization and decentralization work. Congratulations to the board of directors, the executive management and the employees of the Vancouver International Airport Authority on this auspicious occasion.