Derelict vessel
Georgia Strait Alliance
Saanich Council has passed a resolution proposing the creation of two inter-governmental programs to address derelict vessels that would be funded by fees on boat purchases, registration, insurance and moorage:
- Abandoned and Derelict Vessel Program
- End of Life Vessel Disposal Program
A proactive initiative like this is encouraging because it confronts the threat to safety and the environment that derelict boats pose, however, this important step is not yet a done deal. To gain BC-wide support, it needs to get passed at the Association of Vancouver Island Coastal Communities Convention on April 8 so make your voice heard!
If you live on Vancouver Island, Georgia Strait Alliance urges you to contact your Mayor and Council to support this resolution. If passed at the AVICC, the measure will go to the Union of BC Municipalities, followed by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, urging the federal and provincial governments to work together with communities to solve this problem once and for all. We'll keep you updated on the resolution's progress.