2004.02.04 - Ocean Action Plan in Speech from the Throne

Press Release

February 4, 2004

Ocean Action Plan in Speech from the Throne – Sets framework for effective ocean stewardship and not just an industrial development plan!

VANCOUVER - The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society was pleased to see the Government of Canada's commitment to an oceans action plan in today's Speech from the Throne (SFT), but will be looking for more details and funding in the budget.

"It is high time that Canada moved from talk to action in the management of our oceans and coasts. The oceans are in crisis and Canada has been neglecting its domestic and international obligations. CPAWS calls on the government to move quickly to develop this plan and to finally allocate specific funding to ensure that the plan can be implemented", said Sabine Jessen, Conservation Director, CPAWS-BC.

"In 1997, when Canada passed its Oceans Act, we were leading the world in the oceans field. However, the act did not come with new funding. Even with the release of the National Oceans Strategy in 2002, no new money has been forthcoming," Jessen added.

"CPAWS is concerned with the implication in the SFT that the oceans action plan is focused on development of Canada's coasts and oceans. From our participation in the crafting of the ocean action plan, the focus is on effective stewardship of our oceans and coasts, not just industrial development."

The ocean action plan is also about developing our science capacity, enhancing ocean technology and innovation, and implementing ocean management, which includes conservation measures such as marine protected areas.

The action plan will help fulfill Canada's international obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which Canada finally ratified in November 2003, and Canada's commitment at the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) to a network of marine protected areas by 2012.

"CPAWS is committed to working together with federal and provincial governments and coastal communities, to move from talk to action on ocean stewardship on all of Canada's coasts," said Jessen.

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Contact:

Sabine Jessen
Conservation Director, CPAWS–BC
Office: 604-685-7445
Cell: 604-657-2813