Best Wishes for 2016

For many of you, the holiday season is not only a time for merrymaking, but also an opportunity to look back at the year and everything that you have accomplished. The same is true for our organization.

For the Canadian Coast Guard, 2015 was a year during which it showcased the breadth of its expertise and efficiency. Refloating the tug Chaulk Determination, which sank in the port of Trois‑Rivières in late December 2014, is one good example. The Environmental Response team was very quick to travel on site to contain and recover the oil spilling from the tug. The CCG also completed the modernization and consolidation of Marine Communication and Traffic Services (MCTS) in the region. In addition, it inaugurated the new mid‑shore patrol vessel, the CCGS A. LeBlanc, and delivered three new Bell 429 light helicopters to Quebec. The outstanding work of the icebreaking teams, who faced an exceptional ice season, is also noteworthy.

Meanwhile, Fisheries and Oceans Canada is proud to have assisted fishermen's organizations in obtaining ecocertification for the lobster fishery in the Magdalen Islands and the Gaspe. This initiative guarantees buyers that the fishery is operated in accordance with sustainable development principles. The Department also made scientific advances, particularly in relation to eels, the feeding habits of marine mammals and the potential impacts of climate change on marine species, including crab. In addition, many consultations were held to establish a marine protected area network. Lastly, we contributed to the completion of major projects, such as the renewal of the St. Lawrence Action Plan and numerous harbour infrastructure improvements under the Federal Infrastructure Initiative.

On behalf of all Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Canadian Coast Guard employees, we would like to offer you and your families and loved ones our best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.