Canada commissions additional coast guard vessel

Canada has commissioned the fourth of the nine Canadian Coast Guard’s (CCGS) Hero class vessel, Constable Carriere at a ceremony in Ontario.

The vessel has been named in memory of Constable J.L. Francois Carriere, who was a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and died on 30 November 1997.

Built in Halifax by Irving Shipbuilding, the 43m long Carriere vessel offers a maximum cruise speed of 25k and accommodates 14 officers, crew and staff.

When cruised at a speed of 14k, the vessel offers a maximum range of 2000nm and can also spend up to two weeks at sea without re-provisioning.

Canada Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Minister Steven Blaney said that the Government continues to support law enforcement agencies in defending borders and keeping communities safe.

"Canadians can count on our Coast Guard to have the tools they need to protect our nation and its people," Blaney added.

The vessel will be deployed to support the Compliance and Enforcement programme in the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes.

Canadian Coast Guard received several vessels from the Government of Canada including mid-shore patrol vessels, a hovercraft, search and rescue lifeboats, specialty vessels, near-shore fishery research vessels, environmental barges, and small craft.

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