Mr. Speaker, the coast guard budget has been drastically cut since it merged with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
In order to cut costs DFO has reneged on its responsibility for boater safety. Literally thousands fishing boats and pleasure crafts are on the water daily, many without modern electronics. Now they are increasingly in danger because of DFO budget cuts for buoys, channel markers, lighthouses and other navigational aids.
What is the minister doing to ensure the safety of our fishers and recreational boaters?