NLIS 2
May 19, 2005
(Environment and Conservation)
Bill C-15 passed in
the senate without amendment
Environment and Conservation Minister Tom Osborne is pleased to
announce that Bill C-15 � An Act to Amend the Migratory Birds
Convention Act and the Canadian Environmental Protection Act passed
in the senate yesterday without amendment.
"The passing of Bill C-15 is very significant for the Province of
Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Osborne. "It will ensure
better protection of our marine environment and address illegal oil
bilge dumping off our coastlines which is an issue this government
takes very seriously."
Bill C-15 outlines significant legislative changes to strengthen
existing federal legislation that deals with marine pollution and
illegal dumping of bilge oil in our ocean. The new legislation
allows for expanded jurisdiction, greater surveillance and
enforcement capability and stiffer fines for offenders.
Minister Osborne stressed he is extremely pleased with the Senate
for a speedy passage of Bill C-15 so that it can now be proclaimed
into law. "Bill C-15 is the last major step toward becoming law that
will ensure better protection of our marine environment and
wildlife."
"The ongoing problem of deliberate dumping of bilge oil in our
waters showed the need to proclaim the legislation into law," said
Minister Osborne. "Ships who illegally dump bilge oil at sea will
now realize that there will be zero tolerance for such heedless
abuse of our environment."
Shipping companies and the people who operate these vessels can be
fined a minimum of $500,000 and up to $1 million if they are
convicted of illegally dumping bilge oil in Canadian waters.
Over 300,000 birds die each year off the coast of Newfoundland and
Labrador from deliberate discharges of bilge oil in our oceans. For
every oiled bird found on our shores, there are 10 others that are
not found.
Minister Osborne stated that amending the Migratory Birds Convention
Act and the Canadian Environmental Protection Act is in line with
government�s Blueprint commitment to the protection of our
environment. "We will continue to work diligently to ensure our
environment and natural heritage are protected for the benefit of
present and future generations."
Media contact: Tina Coffey, Communications, (709) 729-5783, 728-8650
2005 05 19
1:25 p.m.
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