Should Fines for Abandoned Ships and Marine Pollution Be Increased?
Official title: Proposed regulatory project on administrative monetary penalties under the Marine Liability Act and parts of the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act
Transport Canada wants to set fine amounts for violations of marine liability and abandoned vessel laws. Right now, there's no clear penalty schedule. This would tell shipowners and oil transporters exactly what they'd pay for breaking the rules.
Why This Matters
Ever seen a rusting ship abandoned in a harbour? These rules help prevent that. They also cover oil spills and hazardous cargo accidents. Clearer penalties mean polluters know the cost of cutting corners.
What Could Change
New regulations would create a penalty schedule for marine violations. Shipowners of vessels over 300 tonnes and oil transporters would face specific fines. The classification system would rank violations by severity.
Key Issues
- Are the proposed fine amounts appropriate for different types of marine violations?
- How should violations be classified by severity?
How to Participate
- Read the discussion paper to understand the proposed penalty framework.
- Submit your comments by email to marineliability-responsabilitemaritime@tc.gc.ca.