OTTAWA – A Member of Parliament from the neighbouring riding of Leeds-Grenville is looking to remove barriers on the St. Lawrence River when it comes to boating.
Conservative Gord Brown has introduced a private member’s bill in the House of Commons that would permit U.S. pleasure craft to sail or motor into Canadian waters without reporting to customs, provided they don’t stop or anchor.
Brown says it would give the same privilege afforded to people here when they head state-side with their boats.
He says its more of a summer time issue he’s heard from marina owners, local associations and constituents.
Not only would it allow foreign boaters a chance to see the Canadian side of the river, it would stop the confusion when anglers drift into Canadian waters, Brown said.
While introduced with good intentions, private member’s bills in the House of Commons rarely become law.