Federal government injects $65 million into marine search and rescue

The federal government has announced more than $65 million over nine years to bolster community-based search and rescue and the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary.

The funding, part of a 2022 budget commitment to provide $2 billion over nine years to renew the Oceans Protection Plan and expand its work into new areas, allocates $24.29 million and an ongoing $3.37 million annually to Indigenous search and rescue training on all Canadian coasts.

A further $34.1 million, with an additional $4.85 million in each of the nine years, will be directed toward the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Since its 2016 launch, Ottawa has poured over $3.5 billion into the Oceans Protection Plan. The plan aims to enhance marine safety, protect marine environments and create new opportunities for Indigenous and coastal communities.

“Today’s funding demonstrates our commitment to strong partnerships with communities across our coasts,” said Fisheries Minister Diane Lebouthillier.

“Together, we can ensure a safe and reliable search and rescue services on the water for all.”