WINNIPEG, Man. — The first board of directors has been appointed for CentrePort Canada, Manitoba’s new inland port, according to an announcement made by Premier Gary Doer.

“I am pleased to see such strong leadership on the first board of directors of CentrePort Canada,” said Doer. “This group has the experience, skills and qualifications, as well as the support of government and the business community, to make our inland port a success.”

CentrePort Canada is a private sector-focused corporation, created in October by provincial legislation, that will operate and market Manitoba’s inland port as well as attract and co-ordinate business investment, states the announcement from the Premier’s office. The board will have up to 15 members with expertise in such areas as rail, air and truck transportation, international business, labour, infrastructure and construction, law and financial management, and marketing.

CentrePort Canada’s inaugural board members are: Kerry Hawkins (chair), Art Mauro (vice-chair), Maureen Prendiville, David Fung, Chris Lorenc, Gord Peters, Joan Hardy, Don Streuber, Bob Silver, Tom Payne, Barry Rempel, Robert Ziegler, Eugene Kostyra and Ryan Craig.

“Today’s announcement means CentrePort Canada is officially open for business,” Hawkins said. “This is an exciting partnership that will create jobs, attract new companies and reach new markets. We are looking forward to the task of building our inland port and building our province for the future.”

The following organizations had the opportunity to nominate one person to the board:  Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, Manitoba Trucking Association, Business Council of Manitoba, Winnipeg Airports Authority, Manitoba Federation of Labour, City of Winnipeg, Rural Municipality of Rosser, Destination Winnipeg, Government of Manitoba and Government of Canada.