RCMP members from the police force’s West Coast Marine Services will be on board some BC Ferries sailings starting this weekend.
A release from the Mounties’ B.C. headquarters said BC Ferries and Transport Canada have requested support from RCMP “in educating passengers on safety rules and enforcing the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.
The release goes on to say officers will “conduct joint ‘on board’ ferry walkabouts and to enforce the regulation that requires ferry passengers to exit their vehicles on enclosed vehicle decks and stay in designated passenger areas while the ferry is operating.”
The requirement for travellers to exit their vehicles does not apply to the Langdale-Horseshoe Bay, but does apply on routes to Vancouver Island.
“We are committed to public safety and security and want to support the Provincial and Federal governments’ response to the pandemic in every capacity,” said RCMP Chief Supt. Dave Attfield.
“Enforcement and education will be conducted in partnership with BC Ferries, to ensure that Transport Canada’s protocols around COVID-19 are met,” he said. “We are confident that education and awareness will help boost compliance rates on BC Ferries around marine safety measures.”
