The Harper government today replaced two valued and independent board members of the Toronto Port Authority with new directors who have no demonstrated connection to Toronto’s port or its users.

"Today’s action removes two increasingly vocal critics of the cozy relationship between the TPA and Porter. Directors Douglas Reid and Christopher Henley are both highly qualified directors – and have demonstrated the independence and integrity that is expected of directors in this post-Enron climate. One must ask why they have not been re-appointed" said Brian Iler, Chair of CommunityAIR.

"Reid and Henley have been raising serious concerns about governance practices at the TPA, and its close relationship with Porter Air, as is clear from minutes of TPA board meetings obtained by CommunityAIR.. Another director, Colin Watson sits on several boards with Robert Deluce, CEO of Porter, and has described himself as a friend of Mr. Deluce on many occasions. He remains." said Iler.

"It seems that the Harper government does not tolerate dissent at the board table of the TPA. Healthy dissent is a hallmark of good governance" he added.