Canada’s Transport Minister, John Baird, today announced another step forward in the modernization of one of Canada’s oldest laws. Minister Baird released a Ministerial Order outlining criteria for determining classes of minor works and minor waterways under the Navigable Waters Protection Act (NWPA).

“Our government, led by Prime Minister Stephen Harper, is cutting red tape to address today’s economic needs and reflect current realities,” said Minister Baird. “The current rules treat a nearly dry stream the same way as the Northumberland Strait. That just doesn’t make sense.”

The federal government continues its commitment to protect the environment and the public’s right to navigate. The amendments to the NWPA will provide inspectors with more time to spend on waterways and projects of greater concern and importance to Canadians and navigational safety.

Defining classes of minor works and waters that have no significant impact to navigation, such as irrigation and drainage ditches, will enable the government to streamline the approval process for infrastructure and natural resource projects.

“By fixing outdated rules, we can eliminate duplication and get on with improving public transit, upgrading clean water facilities and repairing roads and bridges,” Minister Baird added.

Recent changes to the NWPA were made to ensure that the Act is applied only to infrastructure development projects and activities that actually pose a risk to navigation safety.

The amended Act includes provisions for enforcement, the creation of a continuing offence provision and the addition of inspection powers. It also provides the authority to establish fines from $5,000 to $50,000.

The order are published in the Canada Gazette, Part I as of May 9, 2009.

A backgrounder with further information about the Navigable Waters Protection Act is attached.