OTTAWA - The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) launched its new Screening Contractor Qualification Program. This new program is designed to create a directory of qualified organizations eligible to participate in future Request for Proposals (RFP) for screening services at designated Canadian airports.

"This is a great opportunity for organizations wishing to do business with CATSA to showcase their excellence and enhance their management systems in preparation for our next round of RFP," said Jacques Duchesneau, President and CEO of CATSA. The Program aims to improve our operations while strengthening our relationship with our screening contractors. CATSA will increase its ability to establish consistent levels of security and enhance customer confidence and satisfaction."

The new Screening Contractor Qualification Program was created in consultation with CATSA's current screening contractors as well as experts in quality management principles and standards development. CATSA has mandated the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB), a component of Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC), to assess and qualify organizations seeking to be eligible for future RFPs. CGSB will look at the organization's management system to ensure they meet the requirements of CATSA.

CGSB's Qualification will provide an impartial, objective mechanism for organizations to demonstrate and emphasize the value of their management system and their dedication to quality. This will enhance the credibility and transparency of the CATSA process.

CATSA is an organization determined to continuously improve results, efficiency and effectiveness by implementing innovative programs that are based on best practices used by other public and private organizations.

CATSA's next RFP will be launched later in 2008 for multi-year contact awards beginning in April 2009. CATSA intends to organize the 89 designated airports across Canada into large regional groupings. The airport groupings will be announced in February 2008.