ICS ‘deeply concerned’ by Ottawa’s bid to ban tankers off northern British Columbia

The Canadian Parliament is giving consideration to legislation that could ban the shipment of crude oil in the waters of northern British Columbia.

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has voiced its “deep concern” about this proposed legislation which it says will interfere with international maritime trade.

“Such a draconian step could lead to serious concerns being raised by Canada’s international trading partners,” said ICS director of policy and external relations, Simon Bennett.

ICS asserts that the proposals have not been developed through an evidence-based process, and believes that it would establish an unwelcome precedent that might be emulated elsewhere, including by individual US states, with the potential to impact greatly on the efficiency of world trade, as well as that of Canada.

“We would instead encourage Canada to continue its strong history of environmental protection and support for responsible global trade through the implementation of practical measures consistent with international best practice. This includes respecting the UN International Maritime Organization’s role in developing safe and sustainable shipping regulations and recommendations that might address any concerns that Canada may have,” said Bennett.

This legislation, tabled in the Canadian parliament in May, will be reviewed by a parliamentary committee, starting today.