The Canadian Coast Guard has issued a hefty fine of $12,000 to a boat owner in British Columbia.
On January 23, 2024, the Canadian Coast Guard issued a fine to the owner of MV Dorothy Gale, a 25 foot fiberglass pleasure craft, located in Masset on Haida Gwaii. The vessel was determined to pose a hazard to the marine environment and public safety, as the boat caused structural damage to a public dock in Masset Harbour, which prevented the safe use of the pier.
The owner of Dorothy Gale was issued an administrative monetary penalty of $12,000 and was required to pay within 30 days or to apply for a review hearing with the Transportation Appeal Tribunal of Canada. This fine was issued after the vessel owner failed to comply with the Canadian Coast Guard’s directions to remove the vessel from the marine environment by January 15, 2024.
Owners are responsible for the costs of addressing their problem vessel, which includes cleanup or repairs and any remediation action taken by the Canadian Coast Guard. The Canadian Coast Guard works with vessel owners to address their problem vessels. The issuance of a penalty is a last resort when all other avenues have been exhausted, the Coast Guard said in a press release.
