WHY DOES CANADA NEED A VOLUNTEER MARITIME RESCUE SERVICE?

The present Canadian search and rescue system is dependent on continuing federal government support. Canada is committed to use government resources primarily to meet international agreements to provide search and rescue services. In times of restraint, regional programs may have to be reduced.

Many countries, particularly those in Europe and Australia, have chosen to use voluntary organizations to supplement their government services.

Organizations supported by volunteers and private contributions have an advantage of being independent from government control. The services they provide can be tailored to the needs of the local community, not the priorities of a distant government.