Ottawa announces millions for new Arctic weather, navigational aids
“This commitment reaffirms our position as a sovereign and environmentally responsible polar nation”
Ottawa plans to sink $34.8 million into new and improved meteorological and navigational warning services in the Arctic, a news release announced Feb. 22.
“This government is making significant investments in the delivery of meteorological and navigational services in the Arctic to meet Canada’s commitments to the International Maritime Organization,” said Nunavut’s MP Leona Aglukkaq, who is also the minister responsible for the North. “This commitment reaffirms our position as a sovereign and environmentally responsible polar nation.”
Over five years, most of the money, $26.5 million, will go to Environment Canada, and $8.3 million to Fisheries and Oceans.
The new equipment will provide better access to weather data and navigational shipping information for mariners, commercial shippers and people in the North, said the news release.
They’ll see bulletins sent out as part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, where satellite coverage exists, and also through the DFO’s high frequency radios, where satellite coverage has not yet been established. As well, more information will be available through existing channels.
A new satellite reception and processing station in Resolute Bay will also provide better satellite images with weather and ice information to ships in Northwest Passage, and waters north of Alaska and along part of the western coast of Greenland.
“Our government is committed to helping the North realize its true potential as a healthy, prosperous and secure region within a strong and sovereign Canada,” said federal environment minister Peter Kent. “Today’s investment in critical infrastructure to improve weather and marine services in the Arctic confirms our government’s confidence in the future of the North.”
(0) Comments