Canada will track ships sailing Artic waters

Ship's entering Canada's Artic waters will be subject to new mandatory vessel-tracking rules next week aimed at preventing terrorist activity and pollution. Polar experts had pressured the government to replace the voluntary NORDREG ship-registration system for northern maritime traffic, in a time where melting ice and rising global interest in Arctic tourism, and an interest in economic growth opportunities are increasing ship traffic in the region. The new rules that take affect on Canada Day will also help protect the Canadian environment and improve search and rescue efforts.

There is growing interest in the economic growth opportunities in the region, especially in the mining, oil and gas sectors. The new ship-tracking systems, called the Northern Canada Vessel Traffic Services Zone will work to prevent pollution and will help the coast guard and other federal agencies respond quickly to oil spills, search and rescue and other emergencies.

The U.S. has expressed mixed feelings about the new regime saying they understand the purposes for the stricter rules, but want to continue to freely navigate these waters.