No. H 151/09
For release - October 27, 2009
OTTAWA — Changes to clarify regulations for Canada's waterways were announced today by Canada's Transport Minister John Baird.
Key points of the proposed Regulations Amending the Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations include:
- making it easier to issue permits for sporting, recreational or public events or activities in restricted waters;
- appointing municipal inspectors and special constables in four municipalities in Quebec to enforce the regulations;
- clarifying that a vessel may operate over a shoreline speed limit in order to tow a person on water-skis or other equipment directly away from the shore; and
- correcting errors that apply to 12 Quebec lakes, including Saint-Georges Lake, Manitou Lake and Lake Sainte-Marie — for example, correcting official lake names and coordinates to make it easier for vessel operators to identify and abide by restrictions.
The proposed amendments were published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, on October 10, 2009. A 30-day comment period began on that date, during which time interested parties may provide their views. After consideration of all comments received, Transport Canada will make any necessary changes before publication in the Canada Gazette, Part II, at which time the regulations will come into force.
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