Canada proposes better Marine Safety

Last Thursday, tThe federal government announced proposals to improve marine safety and security, with new international shipping requirements for tracking systems aboard vessels such as passenger vessels with 12+ passengers and cargo vessels of 300 gross tonnes taking international voyages. These long-range identification and tracking systems transmit identity and position to other countries. Canada would also be able to receive identification from foreign vessels navigating within 1,000 nautical miles of its shores. The International Maritime Organization has adopted long-range identification and tracking of vessels in order to protect marine environments and aid shipping security.

The Long-Range Identification and Tracking of Vessels Regulations were pre-published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, on September 19, 2009. A 30-day public comment period follows, after which the regulations will be published in the Canada Gazette, Part II.