Mr. Chair, to the minister, Canada's ports are vital gateways for international trade, serving as crucial links between domestic producers and global markets. Major ports like the port of Halifax in my riding, the port of Vancouver and the port of Montreal handle millions of tonnes of cargo each year, including everything from agricultural products and natural resources to manufactured goods. These ports not only support Canada's export-driven economy, but also act as economic engines in their own right, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs, attracting investment and driving growth in surrounding communities.
Given their central role in Canada's supply chains and economic infrastructure, how can targeted investments in port infrastructure help strengthen our trade competitiveness, create new employment opportunities and support local and regional economic development?
Additionally, how can improving port capacity, efficiency and connectivity to road, rail and intermodal hubs ensure that Canadian businesses can respond to global demand more effectively, reduce bottlenecks and build more resilient and sustainable supply chains?