New Fishing Vessel Safety Regulations come into force today

July 13, 2017     Ottawa, Ontario             Transport Canada

Commercial fishing is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world. The risks are reduced when a qualified, well-trained crew operates a vessel that is designed, equipped, and maintained according to established rules and procedures.

The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, today announced that new regulations to enhance safety in the commercial fishing industry are now in force.

The Fishing Vessel Safety Regulations set out new requirements for safety equipment, written safety procedures and vessel stability for small commercial fishing vessels operating in Canada.

The new regulations, published in the Canada Gazette, Part II, on July 13, 2016, are the result of extensive consultation with stakeholders, including fishing vessel owners, provincial and territorial safety groups, and representatives of fishing safety associations from coast to coast to coast.

Transport Canada has been working closely with fishing vessel owners over the past year to help them be ready to meet the new requirements that are now in force. Going forward, we will continue to work with vessel owners and other commercial fishing industry stakeholders to support implementation of the new regulations.