Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled a $1.2 billion federal investment in safeguarding the oceans on Tuesday, coinciding with upcoming decisions regarding a new pipeline to the West Coast and the expansion of a significant port in Metro Vancouver. Carney expressed concerns about the potential impact of these major initiatives on marine habitats, emphasizing the need to enhance protective measures for marine life in case of emergencies.
The allocated funds will support various initiatives, including bolstering the Canadian Coast Guard’s ability to monitor marine traffic, implementing a national near-shore weather forecasting system, and establishing a plan for responding to oil spills involving marine mammals. Additionally, the plan involves upgrading search and rescue facilities, enhancing seabed mapping, and improving efforts for fisheries conservation.
During the announcement in North Vancouver, Carney highlighted the importance of balancing economic development with environmental protection, especially concerning the proposed pipeline project. He emphasized the significance of sustainable development practices and the government’s commitment to safeguarding marine ecosystems while pursuing new investments.
Carney reassured that the proposed pipeline route would avoid sensitive areas and align with existing infrastructure, with a continued ban on tankers along B.C.’s north coast. As Alberta gears up for a referendum on separation, the confirmation of the Phase 2 expansion of LNG Canada’s facility in Kitimat, B.C., was also announced earlier in the day.
Furthermore, Carney expressed support for expanding the Port of Vancouver’s Roberts Bank terminal, emphasizing the need to diversify trade partners and enhance export capabilities. He stressed the importance of investing in measures to protect marine life, particularly endangered species like the southern resident killer whales in the waters off B.C.’s south coast.
In efforts to mitigate underwater noise affecting marine life, Carney announced plans to maintain noise levels at 2023 standards while accommodating increased vessel traffic. Stricter conditions, including halting work if killer whales approach construction sites, will be enforced for the proposed Roberts Bank terminal expansion.
The funding will also support Indigenous-led stewardship and restoration projects in the Lower Fraser River Estuary, enhance fisheries enforcement capabilities with modern tools like drones, and advance collaborative governance in the Great Bear Sea region. Coastal First Nations and environmental groups welcomed the funding as a step towards preparing for heightened vessel traffic and potential environmental risks associated with major projects.
While some groups praised the investment in ocean protection, others criticized the disparity between the funding allocated for protection measures and the government’s support for large-scale projects like the Roberts Bank expansion. Concerns were raised about the potential impacts of proposed legislation, such as Bill C-39, on species at risk and environmental conservation efforts.