In a series of large-scale search and rescue exercises Minister Shea and Minister Ashfield have joined the CCG in Prince Edward Island. Canadian Coast Guard Maritimes Region (CCG) and partner agencies are conducting a series of large-scale search and rescue exercises across Prince Edward Island July 13-15.
Fisheries and Oceans Minister Gail Shea said that these exercises help ensure Canada continues to improve and strengthen its maritime search and rescue responses. She added that Canadian government is investing in Canadian Coast Guard Search and Rescue operations, so that it can continue to save and protect lives. The exercises involve three separate scenarios, each designed to test different areas of search and rescue response and coverage in the event of a real marine emergency.
According to Minister Ashfield exercises like this allow the Coast Guard to continually sharpen its readiness. The Coast Guard stands ready to protect the waters of Atlantic Canada, says Ashfield. The exercises will also test new communications equipment being deployed for the first time in Prince Edward Island that will allow response partners on the Island to communicate directly with each other. Testing of the communications equipment will be assisted by personnel from the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.
