GRS Riverrider
Quote:
This is a concerning ruling, aforementioned case aside. Does this now mean Canada could enforce vessel registration and operator licensing on canoes and canoeists? A presumption I won't mind being wrong about.
The various governments have always had the rights to do this.
It already exists in power boating with the "Pleasure Craft" operating card.
It is not much of a step to add paddle "craft" into that mix.
We have fought this and won before but every paddler needs to be vigilant on legislation floating around.
It almost happened under the Harper Government, not the individuals at the time but those with what they called "fleets" meaning outfitters, camps, hunting camps, clubs. they also incuded a lic fee on insturctors/coaches.
It was withdrawn early in thr process because of the large % of his base opposed it, and it was quickly acted upon by many members of the outdoor community, some of which are on this forum.
That is why all paddlers need to be vigilant in watching what is going on in all levels of Government.
(Hint Watch Ford and parks and Crown lands)
This was strictly a ruling that means the Crown can enforce the general operating a canoe while under the influence.
Had the defense won their point you could bet there would have been legislation addressing this and you could bet that there would be licensing in various forms.
This was all about someone allegedly under the influence and causeing the death of a child.
Any times these incidents occur it has repercussions across the board that effect out paddle world and in instanes like this, it might get a few people thinking a little more.
Jeff