On Aug. 5, I had the honour of hosting the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, to meet with members of the Toronto Aviation Noise Group and other area stakeholders to discuss the impact aircraft noise is having on our residential communities, such as Leaside, Lawrence Park, Hogg’s Hollow and the Don Mills area. A number of items were discussed, including best practices for balancing the demands of travellers and trade with community concerns.
While the discussion focused on flight paths to and from Toronto Pearson International Airport, it also looked at the issue from a national perspective. It considered how all parties — NAV Canada, airports, airlines, Transport Canada and communities — can work together to manage and reduce the impacts of aircraft noise. The minister also noted that she is working with key stakeholders to develop greater transparency in the decision-making process for flight paths.
The discussion also highlighted efforts by the air industry to reduce noise. In doing so, Minister Raitt noted that increased airport traffic has brought important benefits to Canada’s trade and tourism industry, as well as to local citizens.
In closing, Minister Raitt expressed our government’s commitment to continue working to find solutions to noise problems, while allowing the air industry to offer Canadians the air services they need. I look forward to continuing these discussions.
It is an honour and privilege to serve the people of Don Valley West, and I hope to continue bringing their concerns to the attention of my honourable colleagues.