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OTTAWA \u2014 Prime Minister Mark Carney says his government is open to selling public assets if the proceeds could help fund new infrastructure.<\/p>\n
The November federal budget and April spring economic statement both mention exploring new ownership options for the country\u2019s federally owned airports.<\/p>\n
A transport ministry discussion paper published last week on ports and trade suggests the government is also open to amalgamating \u201csome key ports\u201d while selling others.<\/p>\n
Carney says he doesn\u2019t see selling ports as \u201ca top priority\u201d but the government will be transparent about plans to \u201crecycle\u201d existing assets to fund new projects.<\/p>\n
Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said late last month the government is in the early stages of exploring sales of airports, with the goal of improving the passenger experience and efficiency of air travel.<\/p>\n
The minister added he wasn\u2019t sure if a decision had been made on whether money from any airport sale would go toward financing the government\u2019s $25 billion Canada Strong Fund, which was announced just before the spring economic update.<\/p>\n
\u00a92026 The Canadian Press<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n