Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) continue to extend their thoughts and condolences to the families and friends of the crewmembers of the L'Acadien II.
As confirmed by the Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, we have recommenced our efforts to find and bring home Mr. Carl Aucoin, the missing crew member. Additionally, we will attempt to recover L'Acadien II.
Early today, the CCGS George R. Pearkes arrived on scene to begin actively searching for L'Acadien II, based on the last known coordinates of the vessel earlier this week. The search is taking into account drift patterns and ice conditions. The CCGS Edward Cornwall is joined in the search later in the morning. Both vessels are light icebreakers. The heavy class CCGS Terry Fox is now also en route to the scene to assist with the search, and is expected to arrive tomorrow afternoon. We have engaged the a ssistance of a Canadian Forces Aurora long-range patrol aircraft and an air patrol of the area was conducted today. Future patrols will be flown as needed.
Canadian Forces divers have been asked to assist with recovery efforts as soon as the ve ssel is located; Transportation Safety Board officials will also accompany the operation.
Please note that more details on this operation will be posted as they are available.
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