To better protect communities and ensure safer navigation on Canadian waterways, the Government of Canada is amending the Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations (VORR).
Today, Member of Parliament of Compton-Stanstead, Marianne Dandurand, on behalf of the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, announced changes to the VORR that will provide local authorities with a faster and more efficient process to manage issues like excessive speed, shoreline erosion, and safety concerns in their communities. By modernizing the process, local authorities will be better equipped to respond quickly to safety and environmental issues on their waterways.
The updated regulations address longstanding concerns from municipalities about the lengthy process and respond to the government's broader commitment to cutting red tape. These changes also reflect Transport Canada's goals to empower local governments and Indigenous communities with a greater role in waterway management.
These amendments will simplify the regulatory process, reduce red tape, and speed up approvals for local boating restrictions. With these updates, local authorities that submit complete applications after the end of a boating season will be better positioned to have restrictions in place before the next one begins, enhancing safety for all waterway users.
Ultimately, these changes will result in a more effective, timely, and community-centered approach to addressing navigation and environmental issues on Canadian waterways.
