No. H 061/09
For release - April 24, 2009
OTTAWA - Canada's Transport Minister, John Baird, today introduced proposed new Small Vessel Regulations to better regulate the safety of small vessels and improve public safety.
The proposed regulations include new requirements to enhance current safety equipment, vessel construction and some operational requirements for pleasure craft and small commercial vessels. They also introduce renewable pleasure craft licences in order to improve the accuracy of licence information for search and rescue purposes.
"The goal of these regulations is to reduce fatalities, injuries, and property damage resulting from small vessel accidents and incidents in Canada," said Minister Baird.
The Small Vessel Regulations are being updated in order to:
- better reflect the nature of the small vessel fleet in Canada;
- ensure consistency with international standards;
- incorporate new requirements to enhance safety; and
- provide alternatives for the construction and stability of small vessels.
New processes for certification of small vessel construction will now be simplified and more consistent with those of the United States and Europe. This will give more flexibility to manufacturers to adjust their production with market demand. The proposed regulations also harmonize the construction requirements for pleasure craft and non–pleasure vessels of up to 6 metres in length.
These regulatory changes are in line with the objectives of the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 which include protection of the health and well–being of individuals; promotion of safety in marine transportation and recreational boating; and encouragement of viable, effective and economical marine transportation, commerce, and recreational boating.
The proposed regulations will be published in the Canada Gazette, Part I on April 25, 2009. A 30–day comment period follows, during which interested parties may provide their views to Transport Canada. After consideration of all comments received, Transport Canada will make any necessary changes before final approval and publication in the Canada Gazette, Part II, at which time the regulations will come into force.
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