Editor:
My colleague Nathan Cullen was recently quoted in these pages questioning the intended sale of Ridley Terminals. I would like to respond directly to his comments.
First, our government has been clear that we will only proceed with a sale of Ridley Terminals if it maximizes value for Canadian taxpayers. We have also been clear that ensuring open access for multiple users at Ridley is a non-negotiable component to the sale. The legislation that was outlined this week is broad by design. It provides the flexibility to move forward with Ridley's sale if an appropriate buyer comes forward, but does not lock the government into a divestiture.
Mr. Cullen also questioned the value of the sale. As he knows, for years Ridley Terminals declared losses and required millions in government support. This has changed. Under our government, Ridley's grown to be a terminal of considerable value. Moving forward, Ridley has tremendous growth potential and that potential can best be realized by private ownership.
Private ownership of Ridley Terminals could allow the terminal to maximize its contribution to economic growth, jobs and new investments for Prince Rupert and surrounding communities.
Ted Menzies,
Minister of State (Finance)