In response to the Kitikmeot Regional Wildlife Board calling for a shutdown of Northwest Passage routes between October and July to protect caribou, Transport Canada is reiterating its commitment to “engaging” with various agencies, organizations and governments to minimize the risk for caribou, according to Julie Leroux, communications adviser with Transport Canada.
“For example, the department is providing marine transportation expertise to its Nunavut partners and other stakeholders to develop a balanced Nunavut Land Use Plan that represents the vision and values of Nunavummiut,” Leroux stated.
She also noted that, generally, vessels are free to operate in the Arctic provided they comply with Canadian regulatory requirements.