SAINT JOHN, N.B. — Two Conservatives in New Brunswick are urging the federal government to remove a sunken vessel from the Saint John River immediately.
In a joint statement issued by Southwest N.B. MP John Williamson and Kings Centre MLA Bill Oliver called on two federal ministers — Minister of Transport Pablos Rodriguez and Minister of Fisheries Diane Lebouthillier — to exercise their power under the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act to remove Not a Starship from the water.
"Visible evidence of the vessel's diesel, generator fuel and battery fluid leaking into the river throughout the winter was not enough to convince federal officials that this wreck was abandoned," it read.
"Likelihood of a collision has only heightened as nearby boat traffic increases with warmer weather."
Found frozen near the Beulah campground late last year, the abandoned boat has raised nearby residents' concerns over its environmental and safety impacts, according to CBC News.
In December, following an environmental assessment by the Canadian Coast Guard — which deemed there were no risks of pollution and hazards — the case was passed to Transport Canada, which determined there was a potential risk to navigation.
The owner, Jordan Tatton, was asked to remove the ship by April 30 under the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act or risk facing penalties.
That deadline has since passed and the vessel’s mast continues to protrude from the water.
"Ottawa must immediately remove the wrecked sailboat Not a Starship," said Williamson. "Any further delays would demonstrate an unacceptable disregard for environmental protection and community safety along the Saint John River."
Oliver said people are concerned for the safety of the environment and the safety of those who use the river system.
"We need to have the boat removed immediately before boating activities increase. We’ve waited long enough, the time to act is now," he said.
Bookmark our website and support our journalism: Don’t miss the news you need to know — add saltwire.com to your bookmarks and sign up for our newsletters here.
