407 ETR announced today it was awarded the 2005 First-Time Campaign Spirit Award from United Way of York Region (UWYR). Mayor Michael Di Biase of Vaughan and Rahul Bhardwaj, CEO of United Way of York Region, presented the award to 407 ETR for achieving the highest participation rate among all organizations running a first-time campaign.

407 ETR edged out PowerStream Inc. to take the award which was presented during UWYR’s annual celebration dinner at Angus Glen Golf Club.

"It’s an honour to have received this award," said Enrique Díaz-Rato, President and Chief Executive Officer of 407 ETR. "I’m proud of our employees that recognized the need and embraced the campaign to help individuals who rely on the United Way for help.”

407 ETR's inaugural United Way campaign proved to be an exciting two weeks. Staff organized a variety of fundraising activities and raised a total of $28,539.86. Following through on its earlier commitment, the Company donated $57,079.72 – twice the amount employees gave – for a total donation of $85,619. The campaign was conducted at 407 ETR’s head office in Woodbridge, Ontario, where 407 ETR employs nearly 600 people.

Spirit Awards are presented to UWYR’s most enthusiastic and loyal workplace campaigns to recognize organizations and employees that have demonstrated outstanding support to the community through their United Way campaign. Other organizations nominated for awards included AMEX Canada, Johnson & Johnson Medical Products, Motorolla Canada and AT&T Global Services Canada.

407 International Inc. is the sole shareholder of 407 ETR, the operator and manager of Highway 407, which extends 108 kilometres east-west, just north of Toronto. 407 International Inc. is owned by a consortium comprised of Cintra Concesiones de Infraestructuras de Transporte, Macquarie Infrastructure Group and SNC-Lavalin.

For more information, contact:

Media:

Dale A. Albers
Manager, Public Relations
Tel: 905-264-5221