Minister of Transport releases statement inviting public comment on a proposed Vessel Remediation Fund regulatory charge that will enhance protection of the marine environment

Statement

August 11, 2021                                  Ottawa                                                Transport Canada

The Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, issued this statement inviting public comments on a proposed Vessel Remediation Fund regulatory charge that reflects Transport Canada’s efforts to enhance protection of the marine environment, and to improve marine safety and responsible shipping:

“The Government of Canada is committed to implementing a comprehensive national strategy to address abandoned and wrecked vessels which focuses on the prevention and removal of these problem vessels.

“Today, Transport Canada launched a public consultation on the Let’s Talk Transportation web page to invite input on a proposal for the Vessel Remediation Fund regulatory charge and we want to hear your views. As part of the national strategy, and the Oceans Protection Plan, the Government of Canada has been examining options to establish vessel-owner financed funds over the longer term to deal with the increased number of abandoned, wrecked, and hazardous vessels in Canadian waters.

“These problem vessels in Canada have economic and environmental impacts on local communities. They pollute, harm local businesses, damage infrastructure, interfere with navigation, and pose a safety risk to Canadians.

“The proposed regulatory charge would provide a long-term source of funds, financed by the vessel owners themselves, to support measures that address and prevent abandoned, wrecked, or hazardous vessels while alleviating some of the financial burden on Canadian taxpayers.

“The public consultation is intended to open dialogue and to encourage collaboration between Transport Canada, marine industry stakeholders, vessel owners, and coastal communities.

“Clean waterways and healthy ecosystems are key factors in securing a safe and responsible marine environment. Transport Canada will continue to take action to protect our waters and address the wrecked and abandoned vessels that threaten the health and safety of Canada’s waterways.

“Public consultation is important for protecting the marine environment, and moving to a healthier, thriving marine ecosystem and safer shipping. I encourage Canadians to get involved and provide feedback on the consultation page, as every voice and opinion matters.” 

Contacts

Allison St-Jean
Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Omar Alghabra
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
(613) 290-8656
allison.st-jean@tc.gc.ca

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055
media@tc.gc.ca

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