marine safety 4 results

Federal Government Updates Ocean Protection Initiatives

With the longest coastline in the world, the Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic oceans have been part of Canadians’ way of life for centuries and they have helped to build Canada’s history and sustain our economy over generations. We all want our oceans to remain productive, sustainable and able to support healthy marine ecosystems and coastal communities. As Canada’s Oceans Minister, these are priorities for me and this Oceans Day is an opportunity to reflect on our accomplishments and ...

Risky Business

The May issue of The Navigator each year is about marine safety. Consistent with that theme, this column is about the risks associated with catching fish. And there is no doubt fishing is a risky business. Wikipedia provides a couple of interesting definitions of risk. One is “the potential for gaining or losing something of value.” And the other is “the intentional interaction with uncertainty.” Both seem to be relevant for thinking about risk in the fishery. Although there ...

Man Overboard: 55 Deaths in 15 years

Just the other day, the winds were gusting in excess of 120 kilometres/hour — but people in this region did not seem to even notice — just going about their daily business like nothing was happening. Atlantic Canadians, if nothing else, are never phased by a “little wind.” It is just another example of the often harsh realities of living in this neck of the woods. And no other industry is forced to deal with these climatological extremes more than the fishery. Everyone involved ...

In the Thick of it

Canadian Coast Guard Icebreaking Operations This time of year it’s common to look out your window to see a field of packed ice and snow covering your beautiful harbour. Living in a region of Canada that relies heavily on marine transportation for work, commerce and travel, ice conditions play a major role in whether schedules are met, property is damaged and people’s safety. It’s easy to see why the Canadian Coast Guard’s (CCG) icebreaking operations are such an important part of ...