FOR RELEASE     #05-032
February 15, 2005

WHITEHORSE - The Yukon Government, through the Department of Highways and Public Works, has joined the Western Transportation Advisory Council (WESTAC), giving the territory a stronger voice in western Canada’s transportation sector.

"WESTAC represents large and influential transportation stakeholders in western Canada and we are pleased to be adding our voice to this important forum," Highways and Public Works Minister Glenn Hart said. "Through this organization, we have a strategic opportunity to partner with other members and strengthen our economy using our well-developed transportation system."

WESTAC is a non-profit association of major transportation organizations represented by senior business, labour and government decision makers. The organization works to promote transportation as a critical sector supporting trade, jobs and a high standard of living.

Other WESTAC members include the Alberta Government, Canadian Pacific Railway, the Edmonton Regional Airports Authority, the Saskatchewan Government, Transport Canada and various coastal BC port authorities, to name a few.

"We deliver high-quality professional services at the lowest cost to our members and we appreciate their support," said Ruth Sol, WESTAC president. "The challenges faced by transportation require that WESTAC continue providing the framework for intensive but non-confrontational, productive and professional dialogue. The Yukon Government is an important new addition."

"Resource sectors are on the upswing, there is renewed discussion of a pipeline out of Alaska and exploratory discussions have taken place on a railway connecting Alaska, the Yukon and southern locations. All of these undertakings increase the role the Yukon will play in the development of Canada's north and our own economy," Hart said.

"By joining with other WESTAC members, we will be increasing our profile among western Canada's transportation leaders and decision-makers. This will help generate awareness of the Yukon and new opportunities for the territory."

For more information on WESTAC, please visit:  http://www.westac.com/

-30-