March 28, 2010 - Canada's Transport Minister John Baird today announced that the Government of Canada is taking action to ensure Canadian airports have the safest and most effective security systems possible, by proposing changes to the Canadian Aviation Security Regulations.  

A Notice of Intent providing an overview of the proposed changes will be published tomorrow in the Canada Gazette, and Canadians are invited to submit comments on these changes by April 30, 2010. 

"While Canadians enjoy one of the safest, most secure and efficient aviation systems in the world, our government is working diligently to ensure security at Canadian airports is as effective as possible," said Baird. "Strengthening airport security is an important part of our commitment to protect the travelling public, airlines, aviation workers and many businesses that rely on airports and air transportation." 

The intent of these changes to the Canadian Aviation Security Regulations is to address new and emerging threats to aviation security, as well as adopt best practices in aviation security, harmonize our regulations with international partners, increase transparency and keep our air transportation industry competitive. 

Once this pre-consultation phase is complete, the amendments will be published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, later this year and Canadians will have another opportunity to comment on the proposed changes. Airport security programs are a Budget 2009 commitment and a component of Canada's Economic Action Plan.