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House Bill

Bill C-305

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
November 03, 2022
An Act to amend the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 (anchorage prohibition)
  • Bill C-305 is a law that changes the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 to prevent ships from anchoring in certain waters. The purpose of the law is to protect the environment and marine habitat in these waters, including species like the southern resident killer whale. The bill also acknowledges concerns from local communities and First Nations who were not consulted before the establishment of these anchorages. Violating the law can result in a fine of up to $100,000. The specific waters where anchoring is prohibited are listed in Schedule 1.1 of the bill.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman argument: Proponents of Bill C-305 argue that this amendment to the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 is necessary to protect the sensitive marine habitat in certain waters. The increased usage of anchorages by large vessels in these areas has raised concerns about environmental impact and potential ecological disasters. The prohibition of anchoring in these prohibited waters aims to mitigate these risks and safeguard marine life, including endangered species such as the southern resident killer whales. The inclusion of a Schedule 1.1 that clearly defines the boundaries of the prohibited waters provides clarity and enforceability to this amendment. By adding these waters to the schedule, the Minister of Transport can make recommendations to the Governor in Council to protect these areas from anchoring. Furthermore, the preamble acknowledges the importance of the marine environment to the social, cultural, and economic well-being

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman Argument: Prohibiting the anchoring of vessels within certain waters, as proposed in Bill C-305, brings significant benefits to the environment and local communities. The increased usage of anchorages in the southern British Columbia waters has resulted in disturbances caused by light and noise, affecting the wellbeing of residents. By implementing this prohibition, the frequency and duration of stays at anchor will decrease, alleviating these disturbances. Additionally, the presence of vessels swinging at anchor poses a risk of environmental and ecological disaster, particularly to ancient clam beds, prawns, oysters, and endangered species like the southern resident killer whale. By prohibiting anchoring, the risks of environmental impact and potential grounding of vessels will be mitigated. Furthermore, the establishment of national marine conservation areas in these waters has been recognized as important for the protection
House First Reading
  • Nov. 3, 2022, 10 a.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read