VANCOUVER – Environmental lawyers are congratulating the federal government on the introduction in Parliament today of the proposed Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, which marks a critical step forward in efforts to protect the north Pacific coast from the risk of oil spills.
“West Coast Environmental Law Association has spent decades advocating for a strong, legislated oil tanker ban, and we applaud the federal government for following through on its commitments to entrench this moratorium in law,” said Gavin Smith, Staff Counsel.
The newly-tabled legislation follows repeated commitments from the federal government to formalize an oil tanker ban on the north coast of BC.
“We look forward to reviewing the details of the legislation, and will continue to work with the federal government to ensure that the region’s ecosystems and communities are safe from oil spills,” said Smith.
Over the past year, West Coast lawyers have participated in Transport Canada roundtables, made written and oral submissions, and met with Ministers and federal officials to advocate for strong oil tanker ban legislation – in collaboration with allies from First Nations, labour organizations, northern community groups and environmental organizations.
For a more in-depth analysis of the proposed legislation (based on details released in late 2016), please see West Coast’s recent publication, Will the Pacific North Coast Oil Tanker Ban Hold Water?
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For more information, please contact:
Gavin Smith | Staff Counsel, West Coast Environmental Law Association
778-882-4374
Additional resources:
(January 2017)