Ottawa – The May long weekend is the unofficial start of boating season for many Canadians. As the season begins, the Government of Canada is committed to raising awareness about safe boating practices and keeping Canadians safer on the water. Minister of Transport, Omar Alghabra, announced the recipients for over $1 million for recreational boating safety projects under Canada’s Boating Safety Contribution Program. This funding is going to:
- Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District ($210,000);
- Shuswap Lifeboat Society ($28,514);
- Shuswap Watershed Council ($24,025);
- Tŝilhqot’in National Government ($299,935);
- Alberta Whitewater Association ($225,000);
- Canot Kayak Quebec ($208,751); and
- Labrador Hunting and Fishing Association ($91,800).
This year’s funding supports projects by not-for-profit organizations and Indigenous communities that will enhance recreational boating safety by supporting the development of safe boating programs, the training of boating safety personnel, and the establishment of safe paddling routes.
With North American Safe Boating Awareness Week underway next week, and with summer on the horizon, it is time for all boaters to reflect on how they can enjoy the water in a safe and responsible way throughout the boating season.