Will Install An Integrated Radio Alarm System, Known As IRAS

Canadians, tourists and businesses benefit from safe and well-maintained airports. From visiting friends and family, to travelling to medical appointments, or getting goods to market, we rely on our local airports to support and sustain vibrant communities. These airports also provide essential air services including community resupply, air ambulance, search and rescue and forest fire response.

The Honorable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Member of Parliament for University—Rosedale, on behalf of the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, recently announced a Government of Canada investment to install an integrated radio alarm system, known as IRAS, at the Sault Ste. Marie Airport.

The investment of $16,250 for the IRAS will improve emergency response by allowing radio communication between the control tower and the fire hall, security station and individual wireless radios. Minister Freeland also toured the recently completed projects to rehabilitate airside essential power systems and the purchase of an aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle and associated equipment. The value of these two projects is more than $1.1 million.

A well maintained airport emergency communications system, a reliable electrical system, and state-of-the-art emergency rescue vehicles and equipment are key to ensuring the safety of passengers, aircraft and crews.

"People in Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding region depend on their airport not only for personal and business travel, but also for access to specialized and emergency medical care. The investment announced today will ensure continued safe and reliable service for this important hub," said the Honorable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Member of Parliament for University—Rosedale

"Our Government recognizes that local airports are major contributors to the economic growth and social well-being of smaller communities. In addition to supporting travel and tourism, local airports are key connectors for business, health care, social services, and emerging resource development sectors. These investments will improve access to safe, efficient and accessible air transportation options, and will help us deliver on our promise to build safer, healthier and stronger communities across Canada," said the Honorable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport.

This funding comes from Transport Canada's Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP). To date, the Sault Ste. Marie Airport has received more than $10.3 million in ACAP funding for 22 safety projects, including the installation of an integrated radio alarm system, replacement of an aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle, rehabilitation of airside essential power systems and the purchase of new snow-clearing equipment.

(Source: Transport Canada news release)

FMI: www.tc.gc.ca