OTTAWA, Feb. 4, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of
Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced that
Transport Canada, in collaboration with the Canadian Coast Guard and
Environment Canada, is commissioning a pan-Canadian risk assessment
study on readiness to respond to ship-source spills in Canadian waters.
"Our government is working to protect the safety of Canadians and the
environment," said Minister Lebel. "Canada depends on marine shipping
for jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity. While the current
system has served Canada well, it is essential that we have a system in
place that can meet future needs."
Building on previously conducted risk assessments, this study will
analyze and evaluate the risk of oil or chemical spills occurring in
Canadian waters as a result of incidents involving ships or oil
handling facilities. It will be conducted in two phases. The first
phase will examine the likelihood and potential impacts of oil spills
in Canadian waters, including the Arctic. The second phase will look at
the risks associated with chemical spills." The study will focus on
different types of incidents including collisions, fire, explosions,
structural failure and loading/off loading operations.
The risk assessment will provide the Government of Canada with key
information to support continuous improvements to marine safety.
"Action to strengthen safety systems is an important part of this
government's commitment to responsible resource development," added
Minister Lebel.
In order to retain marine and risk experts, a request for proposals was
posted on the Government Electronic Tendering Service known as MERX (www.merx.com). The contracting process is managed by Public Works and Government
Services Canada. The contract award is expected to be announced in
early spring.
The Government of Canada has already provided Canada with a strong
marine safety system with measures that include a requirement for
double-hulled tankers, mandatory pilotage of vessels and enhanced
requirements for navigational tools. For more information, please
visit the Transport Canada website at www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/menu-4100.htm.
SOURCE: Transport Canada
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