CCGA to update search-and-rescue tracking system

The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA) will receive CA$725,000 (US$580,000) to assist with its search-and-rescue efforts.

The Gatineau-based CCGA is a non-profit organisation of 4,000 volunteers across the country who use their own vessels to respond to incidents in Canadian waters.

The funding will be used to develop a tracking system to link crews and CGGA activities.

CCGA National Chair Randy Strandt said the modernisation of the SAR Management System would standardise and improve access to critical operational information, reduce response times and improve the process of tasking auxiliary vessels to marine emergencies by the Canadian Rescue Coordination Centres.

“The search-and-rescue community works tirelessly to keep us all safe if something goes wrong. The government of Canada is proud to support more effective and coordinated search-and-rescue capacity to provide better tools to help the volunteers and experts who respond to emergencies and work to prevent them before they happen,” said Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Ralph Goodale.