NEWS RELEASE

CANADIAN SECTION OF THE CANADA–U.S. INTERPARLIAMENTARY GROUP SENDS CONDOLENCES ON THE DEATH OF JIM PHILLIPS, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE CANADIAN/AMERICAN BORDER TRADE ALLIANCE

It was with great sadness that members of the Canadian Section of the Canada–United States Inter-Parliamentary Group learned about the passing of Jim Phillips, founding President and CEO of the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance.

“Since 1992 Jim has been a tireless advocate for improved Canada–U.S. relations. His efforts were boundless as he sought to connect Canadians and Americans focused on bilateral trade and tourism, whether business people, key bureaucrats, influential policy makers or representatives of trade associations. His focus was always on improving the bilateral relationship, and on fostering greater collaboration and efficiency. His dedication to these causes has left a lasting impression on the Canadian Section’s members,” said Senator Michael L. MacDonald, Senate Co-Chair of the Canadian Section of the Inter-Parliamentary Group (IPG).

The Honourable Wayne Easter, P.C., M.P., House of Commons’ IPG Co-Chair concluded: “Without doubt, as we continue our work with the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance, a relationship that spans more than a decade, we’ll feel the weight of Jim’s loss. He leaves a lasting legacy that is certain to inspire others, and to foster new efforts in Canada-U.S. cooperation. He will be missed by all members of the IPG. We extend our most heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends in both Canada and the United States.”

The Canada–United States IPG aims to find points of convergence in respective national policies, to initiate dialogue on points of divergence, to encourage the exchange of information and to promote better understanding among legislators on shared issues of concern. Additional information on the IPG can be found at www.parl.ca/CEUS.

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For further information:

Hon. Michael L. MacDonald, Senator, Co-Chair
Canada–U.S. Inter-Parliamentary Group - 613-995-1866

Hon. Wayne Easter, P.C., M.P., Co-Chair
Canada–U.S. Inter-Parliamentary Group - 613-992-2406

Grant McLaughlin, Association Secretary
Canada–U.S. Inter-Parliamentary Group - 613-944-4238