The U-SEA COLONSAY, a new, larger Canpotex potash ship has made its maiden voyage to Neptune Terminals, expanding Canpotex's capacity to export more potash to Asia and other international markets creating more jobs in North Vancouver.

"Canpotex needs bigger ships to move more potash. This means more business and jobs in North Vancouver and supports 'Canada Starts Here - the BC Jobs Plan' to expand and open new markets in the Asia Pacific region and create new jobs at home," said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Blair Lekstrom. "A seamless flow of goods is what differentiates a good transportation system from a great one. We are committed to having one of the best systems in the world."

Lekstrom, along with Scott Rudderham, Canpotex's vice president, operations, and Jim Belsheim, president of Neptune Terminals toured one of the newest vessels to visit North Vancouver. This state-of-the-art vessel incorporates new technologies that will ensure modern, cost- effective and environmentally friendly ocean transportation services.

Rudderham noted the importance of having reliable infrastructure and ocean freight services. One of the key pillars of the BC Jobs Plan is strengthening infrastructure to get goods and services to market.

"It has always been our practice to plan ahead and anticipate growth in the potash industry. Canpotex's long-term investments in infrastructure at Neptune Terminals and our long-term vessel commitments ensure we have the capacity and resources available to respond to the changing needs of our customers."

Neptune Terminals is part of an all Canadian supply chain utilizing the Pacific Gateway and supporting Vancouver's development as a global maritime centre. Neptune has recently upgraded its potash-handling capability to 11.5 million tonnes to handle Canpotex's increasing international potash trade. Potash shipments rose by more than 160 per cent over 2009 shipments to 5.5 million tonnes at Neptune last year, and are projected to exceed 7.2 million tonnes in 2011.

"We anticipate 90 new jobs for our potash business as a result of a $75-million strategic investment program at our terminal, covering various recent capital projects and improvements. By focusing on customer service and working closely with Canpotex over the last few years, we've been able to significantly improve service delivery from mine to ship," said Belsheim.

Quick Facts:

• The U-SEA COLONSAY is a bulk transport vessel, capable of carrying approximately 60,000 tonnes of potash.
• U-Sea Bulk improves efficiency in these new vessels by using the latest engine technology and improving the structural design of the vessel to reduce both sea and air drag. These factors lead to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
• Neptune Bulk Terminals' shareholders are Canpotex, Teck Resources Ltd.and Bunge Canada. Neptune handles potash, steelmaking coal, bulk vegetable oils, fertilizers and agricultural products from Western Canada destined for markets around the world.

Learn More:

http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/

http://www.canpotex.com/

http://www.neptuneterminals.com/

http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/PacificGateway/index.htm

Listen to audio (soundcloud.com)

UPDATE NOTE: As part of its BC Jobs Plan (bcjobsplan.ca) , on April 2, 2012, the Province released The Pacific Gateway Transportation Strategy: 2012-2020 (bcjobsplan.ca) . They are also seeking public input on this related question: “How can Vancouver become a globally recognized maritime centre of excellence, by 2020?” (engage.bcjobsplan.ca) Join the conversation and share your ideas.

Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241

Jennifer Siemens
Manager, Corporate Communications
306 931-7275
306 280-7759 (cell)
Email: Jennifer.siemens@canpotex.com