June 6, 2009
Ottawa, Ontario – Today, after graduating from the Canadian Coast Guard College in Sydney, Nova Scotia, 14 new Marine Engineering Officers joined the ranks of the Coast Guard.
"Safe and secure waters are a part of our Canadian heritage. They are vital to our economy as they support our fisheries and marine sectors, trade, and tourism,” said the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, offering her congratulations from Ottawa. "As new members of the Coast Guard, these young people will be making a difference for all Canadians."
Today’s graduates completed a four-year program and received commercial certification in marine engineering, a Bachelor of Technology in Nautical Sciences degree from Cape Breton University, and a diploma from the Canadian Coast Guard College. They will soon make their way to various Coast Guard stations across Canada to take up active positions.
"Canadians can be proud of their Coast Guard,” said Minister Shea. “Our men and women are internationally recognized for excellence in search and rescue operations and icebreaking. Today, we welcome these new cadets to a proud national institution.”
The Government of Canada continues to bolster marine safety and security with significant investments in the Coast Guard fleet. Canada’s Economic Action Plan saw $175 million for the procurement of 68 new small vessels, 30 environmental barges and major repair work on 40 large vessels.
Backgrounder:
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Scott Cantin
Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa
613-993-5413
Nancy Bishay
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa
613 992-3474
NR-HQ-09-28E
