Work to Remove the Kathryn Spirit is completed

BEAUHARNOIS, QC, Oct. 12, 2018 /CNW/ - Protecting our oceans and waterways is crucial so that Canadians have healthy communities in which to live, work and raise their families.

The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, today announced that the Government of Canada has delivered on its commitment to permanently remove the abandoned and derelict vessel Kathryn Spirit from the shores of Beauharnois, Quebec.

The Government of Canada recognizes the risks abandoned, derelict and wrecked vessels pose to safe navigation, the marine environment, public health and local economies. Removal of this vessel was necessary to protect the coast of Lac St-Louis and the quality of the water, and this in the interest of the community and all Canadians for today's use and for future generations.

Without meaningful action, this issue is expected to grow as vessels in Canadian waters get older. Cleaning up problem vessels can be very costly, with the burden often falling on Canadian taxpayers. Under the Oceans Protection Plan, the introduction of Bill C-64: the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act strengthens vessel owner liability, including requiring mandatory wreck removal insurance for the largest vessels, and prohibiting vessel abandonment. It also enhances federal powers to take action before problem vessels become even bigger problems and more costly to address.

Quotes

"The progress announced today shows the Government of Canada's continued commitment to dealing with vessels of concern, so that they do not pose risks to the public or the marine environment.

Under the Oceans Protection Plan, we have put in place a comprehensive national strategy to help prevent situations like the Kathryn Spirit from reoccurring. Today marks another milestone in cleaning up our Canadian waterways."

The Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport

"It was essential to remove the threat of pollution posed by the Kathryn Spirit. The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that we have a healthy marine environment that can sustain important industries like fishing and tourism that our coastal communities and local economies rely on. We want future generations to have a great place to live and work."

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

"Public Services and Procurement Canada has worked closely with Transport Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard to ensure the environmental protection and the restoration of the site. Thanks to the removal of this vessel, Canadians will be able to safely enjoy the shore of Beauharnois for generations to come."

The Honourable Carla Qualtrough
Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Accessibility

Associated Links

• Oceans Protection Plan

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SOURCE Transport Canada