Transport Canada Takes Unprecedented Action to Enforce Compliance with Marine Safety Regulations

Sept 3, 2024

This story was originally published in the NMMA Canada Member Newsletter for August 2024.

On August 21, 2024, Transport Canada made headlines with a significant announcement aimed at enhancing marine safety and enforcing compliance with the Canada Shipping Act, 2001. Minister of Transport, Pablo Rodriguez, revealed that the department has taken unprecedented measures to address serious violations concerning unlicensed passenger vessels. This action is expected to have important implications for NMMA Canada members and the recreational marine sector at large.

Key Actions and Their Impact

Transport Canada has intensified its oversight of passenger vessels to ensure that all vessels providing paid transportation services are properly registered and meet safety requirements. This move is part of a broader strategy to curb the rising trend of pleasure craft operators offering commercial transportation services without complying with necessary regulations.

Recent enforcement actions include:

            • Seizure of the JAG Vessel: On August 3, 2024, Transport Canada seized the JAG vessel in Boucherville, Québec. The vessel was found to be in violation of several key requirements, including a lack of essential firefighting, fire detection, and life-saving equipment. The absence of lifejackets and proper certification further compounded the safety deficiencies.

            • Detainment of Other Vessels: Several other vessels have been detained as Transport Canada continues to address non-compliance issues. These actions highlight the department’s commitment to rigorous enforcement and the importance of adhering to marine safety standards.

Implications for NMMA Canada Members

For NMMA Canada members, this heightened regulatory focus underscores the importance of maintaining compliance with the Canada Shipping Act, 2001. Ensuring that vessels are properly registered and equipped according to safety regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a critical aspect of protecting passengers and upholding the industry’s reputation.

Key points for NMMA Canada members to consider:

            • Registration and Safety Compliance: All vessels offering passenger services must be registered as passenger vessels and meet the required safety standards. It is essential for operators to verify their compliance and address any deficiencies promptly.

            • Administrative Monetary Penalties: Non-compliance with safety requirements can result in substantial penalties of up to $250,000. NMMA Canada encourages members to review their practices and ensure they align with Transport Canada’s regulations to avoid potential fines.

            • Customer Awareness: Customers are advised to request a copy of a vessel’s safety certificate before embarking on any trip. This proactive measure helps ensure that passengers are aware of the safety standards being met by the operator.

Supporting NMMA Canada Members

NMMA Canada is committed to supporting its members through these regulatory changes. We encourage all members to review the Ship Safety Bulletin No. 19/2024 for detailed information on compliance requirements and to consult the Vessel Registration Query System on the Transport Canada website to verify vessel registration numbers.

If you have any questions or need assistance regarding compliance with the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, please do not hesitate to reach out to Patrick Pereira at ppereira@nmma.org. Our team is here to help you navigate these regulatory changes and ensure that your operations remain compliant and safe.