Posted September 8, 2005 

The Halifax Herald Limited
Saturday, September 8, 2005

By Tom Peters, Business Reporter

Federal Transport Minister Jean Lapierre has decided to take a little more time before he implements a security program that would take a closer look at the backgrounds of Canada's marine workers.

The Marine Transportation Security Clearance Program will require marine facility workers with certain designated duties, or who have access to certain restricted areas, to obtain a security clearance.

The International Longshoremen's Association, plus other marine related unions, has been highly critical of the proposed program, saying it would be too invasive and violate privacy rights.

Transport spokeswoman Irene Marcheterre said Friday the minister, who has been travelling across the country meeting with transportation officials, wants to take a closer look at the program.

She said the minister sees the program in more of a North American context and wants to hold further discussions with the U.S., plus he wants to take a closer look at the appeal process set out in the plan.

Persons would have the right to appeal a decision if they were rejected for security clearance. Labour unions have been critical of the process, saying it was totally unfair.

"We have to find a process that is appropriate and respects the rights of everyone. We want to make sure it is well done," she said. The government had planned to implement the approximately $20-million program this fall.

News reports say labour is pleased with the delay, which will allow time to come up with a program and appeal process suitable to all involved.