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17 abandoned boats around Salt Spring Island to be removed with federal funding

Local Indigenous company awarded funds through Abandoned Boats Program

A local Indigenous company in Victoria has been granted federal funding to remove 17 boats from local waters.

Minister of Transport Marc Garneau announced in Victoria Friday the most recent applicants to receive funding through the Abandoned Boats Program to support the assessment, removal and disposal of abandoned boats in Canadian waters.

Salish Sea Industrial Services, an Indigenous-owned and operated marine construction, maintenance and support services company, is receiving $404,350 under the Abandoned Boats Program to remove the boats from three locations around Salt Spring Island.

RELATED: Feds urged to streamline abandoned boat regulations

“Abandoned boats are a threat to marine ecosystems, aquatic species and the livelihood of fish harvesters. The Government of Canada is proud to support this collaboration of municipalities, industry, and Indigenous groups, working together to improve our coasts and waterways for future generations,” said Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport.

The company previously received funding for and successfully completed the removal of four boats in Victoria Harbour.

The Township of Esquimalt was also announced as a recipient, receiving $2,500 for assessment of one boat and $5,625 for removal of one boat.

RELATED: Transport Canada announces $17M for pollutant clean up in Victoria Park, removal of abandoned boats

The Abandoned Boats Program is investing $6.85 million for abandoned boat assessment, removal and disposal, and for research and education initiatives, under the Oceans Protection Plan.

Launched in November 2016, the five-year, $1.5-billion Oceans Protection Plan is working to protect Canada’s coasts and waterways.

“As we mark the two-year anniversary of the Oceans Protection Plan this month, we renew our commitment to meaningful action to safeguard Canadian waters as a critical resource and a source of pride,” said Garneau.


 
keri.coles@blackpress.ca

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Minister of Transport Marc Garneau announced Friday that Salish Sea Industrial Services, an Indigenous-owned and operated marine construction, maintenance and support services company, is receiving $404,350 under the Abandoned Boats Program to remove 17 boats from three locations around Salt Spring Island. (Keri Coles/News staff)
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Minister of Transport Marc Garneau announced Friday the most recent applicants to receive funding through the Abandoned Boats Program to support the assessment, removal and disposal of abandoned boats in Canadian waters. (Keri Coles/News staff)
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Minister of Transport Marc Garneau speaks with representatives from Salish Sea Industrial Services, an Indigenous-owned and operated marine construction, maintenance and support services company receiving $404,350 under the Abandoned Boats Program to remove the boats from three locations around Salt Spring Island. (Keri Coles/News staff)