BRIDGEWATER, N.S.– The Minister of National Defence and the Atlantic Gateway, the Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, today announced plans for Fraser to be transferred back to the Department of National Defence from its current owner, the Artificial Reef Society of Nova Scotia (ARSNS).
Despite the best intentions and best efforts of the ARSNS, the significant scope of maintaining Fraser proved to be beyond the capacity of the Society's resources. The vessel has been slowly deteriorating over the years.
Since DND has the capability and experience in managing large vessels, it was recognized that DND should play a role in improving Fraser's situation.
"We appreciate the hard work and dedication the ARSNS has shown over the years," said Minister MacKay. "By both parties coming to an agreement, we are able to take this opportunity to do the right thing by acting now to prevent further deterioration of Fraser and to develop a longer term plan for its future."
A comprehensive survey of the ship's condition will be conducted shortly. This will be accompanied by remedial work to address any immediate environmental, health or safety risks that are assessed during the survey. The work will also ensure that the ship is safe to move.
The title, custody and liability of Fraser will be transferred to DND immediately before the vessel is moved from Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, to a temporary berth.
DND is evaluating a number of disposal options, including preservation of the vessel for heritage purposes, sinking it to create an artificial reef or disposal as scrap.
Fraser has been in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, as a floating museum since 1997.
-30-
