Marine Transportation Industry Backs Government Investment in Aquatic Species at Risk

VANCOUVER, Feb. 14, 2019 /CNW/ - The commercial marine transportation industry is in full support of the Government of Canada's establishment of the Canada Nature Fund for Aquatic Species at Risk. Announced earlier today by the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, the fund will provide $55 million over five years to support projects that help to recover aquatic species at risk and is targeted towards two priority marine threats and seven freshwater priority places.

The marine shipping industry and its partners have demonstrated their commitment and developed and implemented a suite of innovative, science-based protective measures for the protection of endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales. We are optimistic that this fund may provide additional opportunities for research and development, technology innovation, and operational measures that would be beneficial to reducing the impacts of shipping on aquatic species at risk.

"Protecting critical habitat and endangered species, such as the Southern Resident Killer Whale, is an essential aspect of responsible shipping," stated the Chamber's President, Robert Lewis-Manning. "We are encouraged by the Government of Canada's ongoing commitment and the collaboration of numerous diverse stakeholders in developing innovative solutions."

In addition to supporting specific projects, we trust that the Government of Canada will also facilitate a cohesive review to modernize existing procedures and regulations to ensure that all are supporting adaptive and effective measures by commercial marine shipping.

About Chamber of Shipping
The Chamber of Shipping represents commercial carriers and their agents in Canada which trade internationally and domestically. The marine transportation sector is vital to supporting Canadian trade and our continued prosperity and high standard of living depend on our ability to deliver resources, goods, and people in a responsible and competitive manner.

SOURCE Chamber of Shipping

Janet Kelly, Chamber of Shipping, T [phone], [email protected]