No. H147/03 For release December 9, 2003 TRANSPORT CANADA PROPOSES AMENDMENTS TO SMALL VESSEL REGULATIONSOTTAWA - Transport Minister David Collenette today announced proposed amendments to the Small Vessel Regulations that will further enhance the safety of small commercial vessels. The proposed regulations require small vessels to meet recognized construction standards and carry specified lifesaving equipment. "These proposed regulations are designed to enhance the safety of Canada's marine transportation system," said Mr. Collenette. "They include requirements for better built and stronger vessels, and for passengers and crews to have the tools they need in the event of emergencies." The Small Vessel Regulations apply to small commercial vessels under 15 gross tonnage and carrying 12 passengers or fewer, excluding fishing and pleasure vessels. Transport Canada has developed proposed amendments to these regulations, in consultation with the marine industry, to require: compliance with construction standards derived from internationally accepted standards such as those established by the International Standards Organization and the American Boat and Yacht Council. This will provide for vessels to be built to specific standards in terms of hull construction, stability, and electrical and firefighting components, among others. These construction standards will also serve as criteria to inspect vessels on a consistent basis across the country; the carriage of specified safety equipment for use in the event of an emergency, including, for example, lifejackets, oars, a fire extinguisher, a watertight flashlight, and pyrotechnic distress signals; and the carriage of life rafts for all passengers and crew members on small passenger vessels over five gross tonnage and operating in a more exposed environment. The proposed regulations were published in the Canada Gazette Part I on Saturday, December 6, 2003. Following this publication, there is a 45-day period for the public to respond. After consideration of the comments, the regulations will be finalized and published in the Canada Gazette Part II. "Marine safety is a shared responsibility," added Mr. Collenette. "Canada has one of the safest marine transportation systems in the world, and Transport Canada will continue to work with its partners in government, industry and the marine community to maintain and enhance this system." - 30 - Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. Subscribe to news releases and speeches at apps.tc.gc.ca/listserv/ and keep up-to-date on the latest from Transport Canada. This news release may be made available in alternative formats for persons with visual disabilities.
