Lighthouse automation in B.C., N.L. on hold
Last Updated: Wednesday, September 30, 2009 | 10:23 PM NT
The Canadian Press
The Trial Island lighthouse off Victoria is said to be slated for automation as the coast guard looks to cut expenses, but Ottawa has ordered a review of the coast guard's plans. (CBC)Fisheries Minister Gail Shea has ordered a review of the coast guard's plans to automate lighthouses in British Columbia and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Shea said safety concerns have been raised by a number of parties over the gradual de-staffing of light stations in the two provinces, so no more automation will take place until the review is complete.
There are 27 staffed lighthouses left in B.C. and nine in Newfoundland and Labrador, but the coast guard announced plans earlier this year to automate the stations.
More than 23 other lighthouses in B.C. have already been automated.
Shea said automated lighthouses in other provinces haven't compromised safety but a review is needed.
The Public Service Alliance of Canada, which represents the country's remaining lighthouse staff, launched a petition last week to force the government to reverse the decision to de-staff the lighthouses.
The union said the lighthouse keepers are the eyes and ears of the coast and cannot be replaced with computer equipment.
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