Legislation Recognizes Volunteer Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary

Nova Scotians who volunteer for the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary are being recognized for their support for marine search and rescue operations.

Auxiliary members will qualify for an exemption of their vehicle registration fee under new legislation introduced today, Feb. 28. The exemption includes cars and trucks.

“I am proud that we are the first province to recognize that marine search and rescue volunteers deserve this important recognition,” said Finance and Treasury Board Minister Karen Casey. “Nova Scotians appreciate the selfless contributions made by search and rescue volunteers on land and at sea.”

Other services, such as volunteer firefighters and ground search and rescue workers, already qualify for a vehicle registration fee exemption under the Motor Vehicle Act and Regulations.

The auxiliary provides valuable support for the commercial fishery year around and for pleasure craft during the summer.

In Nova Scotia there are more than 400 active auxiliary members who may be eligible for the exemption. These members provide the service of their own vessels to help cover extensive coastline.

Members live in communities such as Yarmouth, Liverpool, Advocate Harbour, Cumberland Co., Pugwash, Sheet Harbour, Ingonish and Glace Bay.

“When a distress call goes out our members are typically already on the water or very close by. They are well positioned to reach the scene quickly and are trained to stabilize the situation and offer support,” said Darcy Henn, of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary – Maritimes. “This will help us retain and recruit volunteer members by recognizing their Maritime Search and Rescue service within their communities.”