Strong and effective enforcement of federal wildlife laws protects species and their habitats, preserves Canada's natural heritage, and helps build a strong and sustainable country that benefits Canadians now and into the future.
On May 8, 2026, at the Nunavut Court of Justice, Transport Desgagnés Inc. was fined $40,000 after pleading guilty to two violations of the Wildlife Area Regulations under the Canada Wildlife Act. In addition to the fine, the company must publish a notice to a local newspaper that includes a description of the offences, the fine paid and relevant details concerning the implicated National Wildlife Area.
On October 1, 2024, Environment and Climate Change Canada enforcement officers received a report that the M/T Sarah Desgagnés, a shipping vessel operated by Transport Desgagnés Inc., had entered Akpait National Wildlife Area. Officers initiated an investigation that revealed the vessel entered the National Wildlife Area on September 29, 2024, and October 6, 2024, without the required access permits. Unauthorized entry into this National Wildlife Area is a violation under paragraph 3.3(1)(h) of the Wildlife Area Regulations.
The Wildlife Area Regulations restrict activities in National Wildlife Areas to protect habitats and wildlife, including migratory birds and species at risk. Vessels can disturb wildlife and their habitats by making noise, creating waves, causing pollution, or getting too close. Requiring permits to access National Wildlife Areas helps protect these sensitive ecosystems by allowing only activities that support conservation.
The fine will be directed to the Government of Canada's Environmental Damages Fund.
As a result of this conviction, the company's name will be added to the Environmental Offenders Registry. The Registry contains information on convictions of corporations registered for offences committed under certain federal environmental laws.
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