Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
We think that port authorities would be better positioned to handle marine traffic, including anchorages. It would be preferable that they would get jurisdiction over these areas in order to do so, including the southern Gulf Islands.
We also think it would be better placed in the Canada Shipping Act, which is the appropriate framework for navigation and shipping.
Nonetheless, we agree with the intent of the NDP motion here, to restrict anchorages to 14 days. For this reason, we will be supportive of this amendment.
I do want to note, Mr. Chair, that there are already provisions and measures in place regarding anchorages. Port authorities have the ability under paragraph 56(1)(b) of the Canada Marine Act, which allows them to administer anchorage usage within a jurisdiction. That also includes setting a time limit.
As well, Mr. Chair—and again, I want to reiterate—this includes authorities respecting regulating or prohibiting the navigation, anchoring, mooring or berthing of vessels for the purposes of promoting the safe and efficient navigation of vessels and protecting the public interest and the environment; therefore, it is a better avenue.