Transport Canada is fining Wainwright Marine $52,000 following an investigation into the fatal sinking of a tugboat near Kitimat last year.
In the late hours of February 10th, the tugboat Ingenika departed Kitimat, towing a large barge full of mining supplies and equipment.
With extreme winds and frigid temperatures in the forecast, crew member Troy Pearson had initially refused to depart, but was convinced to by management.
Sometime the next morning, the Ingenika sank near the Gardner Canal, claiming the lives of both Pearson, and crewmate Charley Cragg, who was on his first shift.
According to Transport Canada, Wainwright’s recklessness and role in the incident was enough to garner a fine just $8,000 below the maximum.
But, Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach says it is not enough, and is calling for stricter federal regulations to create safer conditions to protect mariners.
Currently, certification and specific training is not required for commercial vessels under 15 tonnes, and there is no limit to the size of barge that can be towed.
Bachrach says he has met with Transport Minister Omar Alghabra numerous times to discuss tugboat safety.
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