Trade Team PEI announced today that Tara Lea has been retained as an Export Security Advisor. Trade Team PEI is a partnership among provincial and federal departments and agencies that offer various forms of assistance to active and potential exporters.
In addition, the Export Security Advisor can provide information to Island exporters about the application process for the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT). Tara Lea will be able to advise any Prince Edward Island food facility, which exports to the US, on the specific requirements of the US Bioterrorism Act of 2002.
Tara will also act as a liaison with Canadian and US enforcement agencies to remain current on the status of legislation and its regulations. Any Island company that may be affected by this legislation can contact the Export Security Advisor to ensure their security procedures comply with the legislation and its regulations.
"There are many Island companies and producers already exporting or planning to export to the United States. However, in light of recent events, the United States has the security of all its borders as its number one priority. New legislation has been enacted and new border procedures continue to be put in place. Consequently, it may become difficult to remain current with existing obligations for exporting to the US," noted the Honourable Wayne Easter, Solicitor General of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. "With the appointment of Ms. Lea, PEI's exporters have ready access to an individual who can greatly simplify the entire process."
"Exporting plays a key role in attaining further success for many Island companies," said Mike Currie, Minister of Development & Technology. "The Province of Prince of Prince Edward Island wants to support the security measures made by the US by learning more about how we can work together to form a safe and productive partnership between our Island-based exporting companies and Customs."
For more information, you can contact Tara Lea at (902) 368-4474 or by e-mail at tilea@gov.pe.ca. Her office is located at Prince Edward Island Business Development at 94 Euston Street in Charlottetown.