Three announcements in different Canadian cities today are aimed at ensuring Canada is better equipped, better regulated, and better prepared to protect its oceans and coastal communities.
Ottawa used Victoria, Toronto, and St. Johns as backdrops to announce their new measures -- part of the $1.5-billion Oceans Protection Plan launched last fall.
In Victoria, the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, Dominic LeBlanc, just over $108-Million for the Coast guard to set up 7 new lifeboat stations. They will also create 24/7 emergency management and response.
LeBlanc also announced a $75 million Coastal Restoration Fund for marine habitat restoration and to address threats to marine species. Projects will be chosen and announced within weeks so restoration activities can start by summer or early fall.
On the east coast -- in St. John's -- Transport Minister Marc Garneau, announced a national $6.85 million Abandoned Boats Program to promote the removal of existing smaller high-priority abandoned boats, educate boat owners about their responsibilities, and support research into improving recycling options for boats. It's estimated that there are more than 600 abandoned boats across Canada.
And in Toronto, Environment Minister Catherine McKenna confirmed a review of the Pilotage Act, which ensures marine pilots navigate waters safely. The Review will focus on things like tariffs, service delivery, governance, and dispute resolution.