Fisheries and Oceans Transfers Three Lightstation Properties to Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

May 19, 2006

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Vancouver, B.C. – The Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, and The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced today the transfer of three lightstation properties in British Columbia’s southern Gulf Islands to the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve of Canada. The transfer includes Portlock Point Lightstation on Prevost Island, Active Pass Lightstation at Georgina Point on Mayne Island and East Point Lightstation on Saturna Island.

“The transfer of these properties demonstrates recognition by Fisheries and Oceans of the need to maintain these important landmarks,” said Minister Hearn. “This transfer represents the Government of Canada’s commitment to working with communities and other levels of government to help preserve these structures for present and future generations.”

“These lightstation properties have important ecological values, and their addition to Gulf Islands National Park Reserve also brings to our visitors the opportunity to learn about the history of marine navigation on the Pacific Coast," said Minister Ambrose. "We are pleased to be able to play a role in ensuring these lightstations are protected for all Canadians to enjoy.”    

Gulf Islands National Park Reserve is one of Canada’s newest national parks, and land acquisition is on-going. The park, established in 2003, protects a representative portion of the Strait of Georgia Lowlands natural region. The addition of the lightstation properties adds 6.6 hectares to the park’s area.

All three lightstations are automated and will remain as active aids to navigation for marine users. Continued access will be given to Canadian Coast Guard technicians to service the navigational lights.

Backgrounders:

• ACTIVE PASS (GEORGINA POINT) LIGHTSTATION, MAYNE ISLAND
• PORTLOCK POINT LIGHTHOUSE, PREVOST ISLAND
• SATURNA ISLAND (EAST POINT) LIGHTSTATION, SATURNA ISLAND

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FOR MORE INFORMATION

Dan Bate Communications Officer Fisheries and Oceans Canada Pacific Region 604-775-8809

Steve Langdon Field Unit Superintendent Coastal BC Parks Canada 250-363-8564

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