(Fort Frances, ON) – The Rainy River District Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) conducted marine patrols on Rainy Lake over the long weekend which resulted in several charges under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 as well as the Liquor Licence Act.
On August 4 at approximately 11:30 am, 2 vessels were stopped under the causeway on Rainy Lake. As a result on an inspection of safety equipment and proof of competency, one female was charged with operate a pleasure craft without prescribed competency contrary to section 3(1)(a) of the Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations of the Canada Shipping Act, 2001. One male was charged with Operating vessel with safety equipment not readily accessible and available for immediate use contrary to section 3 and 5(1)(b) of the Small Vessel Regulations of the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.
On August 4 at approximately 1:00 pm a vessel was stopped under the causeway on Rainy Lake. A subsequent inspection of the vessel lead to the male operator being charged with Operating vessel with safety equipment not readily accessible and available for immediate use contrary to section 3 and 5(1)(b) of the Small Vessel Regulations of the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.
On August 4 at approximately 3:43 pm a vessel was stopped at Rocky Narrows on Rainy Lake. As a result of an investigation, 2 males were charged with consuming liquor in other than licenced premises, residence or private place contrary to sec 31(2) of the Liquor Licence Act.
On August 4 at approximately 5:00 pm, a vessel was stopped at Bear Passaege Channel on Rainy Lake. As a result of an inspection the operator of the vessel was charged with Operating vessel with safety equipment not in good working order Contrary to section 3 and 5(1)(a) of the Small Vessel Regulations of the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.
Members of the public who choose to operate vessels on Ontario’s waterways are reminded to ensure that all required safety equipment is on board and readily accessible for use. Also, ensure that you have the proper licencing and proof of competency to operate the vessel as required.
For a list of the equipment that is required as well as licencing requirements, please visit the Transport Canada website at
http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marine-menu.htm
or the OPP website at
http://www.opp.ca/ecms/index.php?id=169