A technology support program to thwart auto theft

Montreal, February 8, 2024—As part of the National Summit on Combatting Auto Theft, the Montreal Port Authority (MPA) today announced the launch of an innovative program to support technological initiatives to thwart the theft of vehicles susceptible to being fraudulently shipped abroad through Port of Montreal territory. For several years, the MPA has been working closely with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), law enforcement agencies and private sector partners against these criminal activities. It is against this backdrop that the MPA launched this new initiative, reflecting its ongoing commitment to port security and the fight against criminal activity.

Through this program, the MPA will provide its support and expertise, free of charge, to companies that offer tracking systems recognized by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC). These companies will be able to receive considerable help in assessing optimal locations, installing antennas to make independent use of their technology easier, and accessing the territory to maintain their equipment.

“This act, we hope, will be followed by other actions to further contribute to make an effort which, to offer concrete results, must be collective both upstream and downstream,” said Geneviève Deschamps, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer. “This act is in addition to the actions and tools already in place at the Port to support investigations and to ensure that we offer a secure territory.”

In collaboration with the Canada Border Services Agency and law enforcement agencies, the MPA provides full assistance on every request for investigation. Currently, more than 800 agents and police officers have 24/7 access to conduct investigations, and over 600 cameras, not to mention the hundreds of others set up by terminal operators, are permanently activated to facilitate interventions and track criminal activities. Among other measures to ensure port security, the MPA Control Centre is also open around the clock, and access to the Port requires official accreditation.

National Summit on Combatting Auto Theft

On February 8, the government held a National Summit on Combatting Auto Theft that brought together leaders from key jurisdictions and sectors to ensure a coordinated response to this major issue. The Montreal Port Authority is very pleased to have been able to report on the initiatives underway. Moreover, Interim President and CEO Geneviève Deschamps took the floor to reaffirm the MPA’s determination to contribute to solving this complex problem.

“I want to reiterate the MPA’s openness to collaboration in implementing pragmatic solutions, as well as our willingness to vigorously support all those who are responsible for fighting crime,” added Geneviève Deschamps.