Briefs
By David Hannon, News and Transportation Editor -- Purchasing, 2/5/2004 2:00:00 AM
Canada recently announced the creation of a new Department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, mirroring the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It includes emergency preparedness, crisis management, national security, corrections, policing, oversight, crime prevention and border functions. Priorities include naming a new Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness; integrating into the core activities of the existing Solicitor General and other activities required to protect against and respond to natural disasters and security emergencies; and Creating a Canada Border Services Agency to build on the Smart Border Initiative.
The Department of Homeland Security recently announced $179 million dollars in Port Security Grants to provide resources for security planning and projects to improve security at seaports. The grants will buy new patrol boats, surveillance equipment and fund the construction of new command and control facilities.
In an effort to expand its retail visibility, shipping giant FedEx Corp. agreed to buy copy center operator Kinko's from private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice for $2.4 billion in cash. Kinko's operates about 1,200 stores worldwide and has an estimated $2 billion in annual revenue. FedEx has been Kinko's shipping provider since 1988, and operates counters in 134 Kinko's stores. "The FedEx and Kinko's combination will substantially increase our retail presence worldwide and will enable both companies to take advantage of growth opportunities in the fast-moving digital economy," said FedEx Chairman and CEO Frederick Smith in a statement.
Emery Worldwide Airlines was recently ordered to pay a $6 million fine for flying hazardous materials on its airplanes without properly notifying pilots. Emery was placed on three years' probation, during which it must comply with efforts to prevent future violations. Emery pleaded guilty to the 12 criminal charges that it violated shipping laws, with a $500,000 fine on each charge.
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