Port Metro Vancouver launches new new patrol vessels
Canada’s largest and most diverse port today unveiled new patrol vessels and other operations and security assets that will help maintain the safe, secure, efficient and reliable movement of marine traffic and cargo within Port Metro Vancouver’s jurisdiction. The port also further strengthened its operations and security presence by updating its harbour operations manual, known as the Port Information Guide, the company said in its press release.
The vessels, built by Campbell River’s Daigle Welding & Marine, will provide marine surveillance, early incident detection and activity tracking. A new incident response and security vehicle, with related tactical hardware, will be used to do the same on land.
The updated Port Information Guide is a resource for all mariners including recreational boaters operating within Port Metro Vancouver’s jurisdiction, and has been brought in line with globally recognized standards published by the International Harbour Masters Association.
Port Metro Vancouver’s federal mandate requires it to promote and safeguard Canada’s trade competitiveness and objectives in part by ensuring port operations are secure, reliable and environmentally responsible.
These latest additions complement Port Metro Vancouver’s operations centre which uses a variety of security and situational awareness technologies such as live camera feeds, controlled access gates and GPS tracking on all port-authorized container trucks.
“Port Metro Vancouver’s operations centre is on task 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, said Peter Xotta, Vice President of Operations and Planning at Port Metro Vancouver. “Our operations centre, Harbour Patrol Officers and security staff monitor activities within Port Metro Vancouver’s jurisdiction, communicate with other agencies and help coordinate response efforts in emergency situations.”
Working with first responders, the community and port stakeholders, Port Metro Vancouver maintains situational awareness and has a coordinating role within its jurisdiction of more than 640 kilometers of shoreline. Responsibilities include marine patrols, ship inspections, permitting of operational activities and the development of marine safety rules and procedures. Port Metro Vancouver works in partnership with a broad range of stakeholders including municipalities, regional emergency response organizations, police forces and federal agencies.
“We are bolstering our presence on land and water,” added Xotta. “This helps ensure our operations and security teams are equipped with the most appropriate tools to carry out and enforce our mandate.”
About Port Metro Vancouver
Port Metro Vancouver is Canada’s largest port and the fourth largest tonnage port in North America, responsible for Canada’s trade with more than 160 world economies. Located in a naturally beautiful setting on Canada’s west coast, Port Metro Vancouver is responsible for the efficient and reliable movement of goods and passengers, and integrates environmental, social and economic sustainability initiatives into all areas of port operations. Port Metro Vancouver is committed to meaningful engagement with the communities in which it operates and the shared obligation to improve the quality of life for Canadians. Enabling the trade of approximately $184 billion in goods annually, the port generates an estimated 100,000 jobs, $6.1 billion in wages, and $9.7 billion in GDP across Canada. As a non-shareholder, financially self-sufficient corporation established by the Government of Canada, Port Metro Vancouver operates pursuant to the Canada Marine Act, and is accountable to the elected federal Minister of Transport.