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15% of tonnage increase at Port of Sept-Îles public docks in 2007

The Port of Sept-Iles is proud to announce an increase of 15% in tonnage handled in its port facilities. This excellent performance helps offset a drop at Iron Ore Company of Canada’s private port facilities. Overall, however, a total of 21,367,838 tonnes were handled in 2007, compared to 23,485,574 tonnes the previous year.

The Pointe-Noire dock in front of Wabush Mines experienced the largest increase, handling over 5,137,000 tonnes, an increase of 20% for 2007.

La Relance terminal experienced an increase of 12% with a record 2,151,000 tonnes handled. The increase marks the third consecutive year of growth at the intermodal terminal serving mainly Aluminerie Alouette. We note a 4% increase in aluminum shipments that have now attained 488,573 tonnes. These Blue Highway shipments constitute close to 90% of the smelter’s production, thus contributing to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions through the use of this “greener” mode of transportation.

“We’re happy to see a steady increase in the use of both the La Relance terminal and Pointe-Noire facilities. The completion of the Relance terminal expansion in 2007 has further spurred growth, allowing us to accommodate larger ships while providing shipowners and operators who use these first-class facilities with increased flexibility,” said CEO Pierre D. Gagnon.

Board chair Élizabeth Blais added that “investments over the last few years in our La Relance and Pointe-Noire port facilities were made in response to users’ needs. We think of our users as valued associates and important partners and strive to offer them the very best service.”

The Port of Sept-Îles plays a leading role in the region’s economy and is a key driver of economic development. Its economic impact has been estimated at close to 4,000 direct and indirect jobs, with an annual economic impact of $1 billion.