The federal government announced today that, due to federal funding cuts, the maritime communication station at Comox will close along with stations at Tofino and Vancouver.
In a press release, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Keith Ashfield noted the safety of Canadians and mariners is the top priority of the Canadian Coast Guard.
"Improving and integrating communications centres across the country will ensure that important information can be properly broadcast to mariners and emergency calls will be received under all circumstrances," he added.
The cuts would leave stations at Victoria and Prince Rupert to serve the B.C. coast.MCTS provides marine safety communications co-ordination with rescue resources and Join Rescue Co-ordination Centre Victoria; vessel traffic services and waterway management, broadcast weather and safety information; sail plan services in addition to support for other government and marine agencies.
Watch this website for updates and see Wednesday's Comox Valley Record for more.