A New Approach to Marine Transportation
Coastal First Nations believe it’s time for a new conversation about shipping traffic in our traditional waters.
Right now all decisions about commercial shipping traffic in our Traditional Territories happen with no consideration of our Aboriginal Rights and Title.
That’s why we’re engaging the federal government in discussions about a new approach. One that will support nation-to-nation decision-making and improve ocean co-management on BC’s coast.
A Historic Opportunity
Establishing a shipping plan for our traditional waters would be a historic accomplishment. This is an opportunity to create a world-leading marine transportation model that is integrated with First Nations knowledge and values, marine plans, local interests and scientific data. It is an opportunity to create trust and support in the region.
A collaborative and comprehensive strategy would:
- Set out a marine spatial and management plan providing certainty for commercial vessel traffic and supporting diverse economic activities
- Ensure First Nations leadership are participating in traffic, safety and incident prevention decisions related to marine transportation in the region
- Protect acoustic habitat for sound-dependent species and help minimize or avoid shipping impacts on marine species, habitats and wildlife travel corridors
- Set out measures to mitigate the impacts of shipping on valuable ecological, economic and cultural sites
- Require investment in regional emergency response capacity – including vessels, response centres, training, and equipment – and secure strong First Nations participation in incident preparedness and response
- Provide for the monitoring and management of cumulative impacts