Lighthouse De-staffing gets Review
Lunney Questions Minister in House

Ottawa-The issue of de-staffing of coastal lighthouses has raised concerns recently. Today in the House of Commons Member of Parliament, James Lunney for Nanaimo-Alberni, asked the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans to clarify the issue.

In the House Lunney said: 

“Mr. Speaker, in coastal B.C., questions are being raised about the prospect of lighthouses being de-staffed. In fact six of these lighthouses are in my riding.

B.C. Conservative MP’s have personally championed the importance of these light stations in the past and in recent times. In fact our party prevented previous Liberal attempts to close light stations in B.C. and in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Could the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans update this House on the latest status on this important issue?”

The Minister responded to Lunney by stating:

“With rapidly developing technology and ever-changing technology, light stations in the rest of the country and indeed around the world have been fully automated for quite some time now. It is clear that mariner safety has not been compromised, but it is my understanding that many light stations in British Columbia and Newfoundland are located in remote areas where light keepers perform a range of additional services.

I have asked therefore that a further review of the extent of these services at the remaining staffed light stations be undertaken and no further lighthouses will be de-staffed until that review is completed” concluded Minister Shea.

“Lighthouse keepers in BC actually perform varied maritime services beyond managing lights alone; I am pleased that the Minister has agreed to review the matter and consider a broader perspective in preserving these valued coastal services and heritage landmarks” concluded Lunney.