OTTAWA – Local MP Gord Brown is looking to remove barriers for Americans enjoying the Canadian waters of the St. Lawrence River.
Brown has introduced a private member’s bill 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.
The Leeds-Grenville Conservative MP says it would give the same privilege afforded to people here when they head state-side with their boats.
Brown said its more of a summer time issue he’s heard from marina owners, local associations and constituents.
The president of the Thousand Islands Association says boaters shouldn’t be burdened with “cumbersome rules.”
The rule change would not only allow boaters from Alexandria Bay to travel past Rockport and Gananoque but it would stop the confusion when anglers drift into neighbouring waters.
While introduced in the House of Commons with good intentions, private member’s bills rarely become law.