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DARTMOUTH – The Canadian Coast Guard Ship (CCGS) Louis S. St-Laurent, Canada’s largest icebreaking vessel, departed from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia today for a four and a half month voyage to Canada’s Arctic waters.
This year’s trip addresses several needs: delivering icebreaking for commercial shipping, providing an important federal presence in the Arctic, supporting Canada’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and making important scientific research possible.
"As this is the International Polar Year, (IPY) the CCGS Louis S. St-Laurent will transport a team of world-renowned scientists to Arctic waters to conduct a wide array of experiments," explained Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans. "The 44 experiments that will be conducted on various ships include wildlife, human health and atmosphere projects," added Minister Hearn.
Canada is playing an important role as host, participant and leader in IPY, as 2007-2008 marks the largest-ever international program of scientific research focussed on the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Thousands of scientists and researchers from more than 60 nations around the globe are expected to participate in IPY throughout this year and next. The Government of Canada’s IPY program is focussed around two priority areas – climate change impacts and adaptations, and the health and well-being of Northern communities.
Canada will continue to work closely with our international partners to ensure that future generations benefit from the work of dedicated scientists and committed individuals from around the world.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
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Communications Branch
Fisheries and Oceans Canada,
Maritimes Region
902-426-3550
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NR-MAR-07-11E |
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