Message from Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard Bernadette Jordan

The Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard Bernadette Jordan A MESSAGE FROM

I’m honoured to extend personal greetings to readers of the 2020 edition of Marine Delivers Magazine.

The familiar red and white hulls of the Canadian Coast Guard fleets are part of our national heritage, and a reassuring symbol of service and safety. Canadians can be very proud of the women and men who work hard every day to protect our coasts, keep our economy moving and people safe. On any given day, they respond to search and rescue missions, maritime security calls, and icebreaking operations.

Last Spring, the Government of Canada announced the single largest investment ever made to renew the Canadian Coast Guard fleet, with up to 18 new large ships and the construction of six new icebreakers. We are outfitting the Coast Guard with modern equipment and the right tools needed to deliver on icebreaking operations, escorts, and ice-management services – all while creating good jobs and economic opportunities that will extend across the country.

The Coast Guard delivers services on the longest coastline in the world, including the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic. In the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway they help ensure uninterrupted trade through this important link to global commerce. And we will continue working hand-in-hand with our many partners to ensure these areas remain secure, safe and prosperous.

It is also our responsibility to ensure equal opportunities for all Canadians. Women around the world are now working and excelling in seafaring and maritime careers, with record numbers in senior roles. There is still much work to be done but I am proud of our Coast Guard for being inclusive and focused on recruiting a diverse workforce that is representative of the Canadians we serve.

Sincerely,

The Honourable Bernadette Jordan Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard