Archive of notes on the investigation into the sinking of the MV Ingenika

As the investigation into the circumstances in the sinking of the Tugboat MV Ingenika gets underway, we'll track any items of interest related to the incident and the work of investigators.

Transportation Safety Board of Canada

Ingenika investigation Report home page

WorkSafe BC Incident Reports

August

2023

September 22 -- Thursday sentencing for Wainwright Marine Official brings $310,000 in fines, community service NCR
September 22 -- Tugboat Operator finally sentenced with $310,000 fine, more than two years after the fatal sinking of the Ingenika  
September 22 -- Tugboat sentence handed down (audio)
September 21 -- BC tugboat owner and company find $310K for fatal sinking that killed 2 workers 

August 17 -- Prince Rupert Court hears guilty pleas from Wainwright Marine and company executive NCR
August 17 -- Tugboat operator and Director reach plea deal on charges stemming from fatal 2021 sinking go the Ingenika near Kitimat 
August 17 -- Mariner's mother says the legal process doesn't equal justice (audio)

April 27 -- MP Taylor Bachrach continues push for stronger tugboat safety measures  NCR

Much 9 -- 'Accidents don't just happen:' TSB issues report on tugboat sinking that claimed 2 lives 
March 9 -- Investigation Finds systemic safety failings in Tug Sinking
March 8 -- Ingenika Update (video)
March 8 -- TSB report into deadly BC tugboat sinking highlights systemic safety issues
March 8 -- Safety board recommends regulation of small tugboats 2 years after fatal Ingenika sinking
March 8 -- Safety board to release report on BC tug sinking that claimed two lives 
March 8 -- TSB makes 4 recommendations following fatal sinking of BC tug boat
March 8 -- BC tug sinking highlights systemic concerns: TSB
March 8 -- No evidence tug in deadly sinking was inspected by Transport Canada in 50 years of service: TSB
March 8 -- Transportation Safety Board Issues four recommendations following final report on fatal sinking of the Tugboat Ingenika  
March 8 -- More calls for Federal Government to address safety issues in marine towing industry, following Transportation Safety Board report on Ingenika NCR

February 10 -- Death on the coast: A story might, a missing Tugboat
February 10 -- Mariner's Park rally brings many together to remember lives lost, call for action to bring more safety to the Marie industry NCR
February 9 -- Rally to commemorate Mariners Lost at Sea planned for Friday morning at Mariner's Park NCR
February 8 -- Wainwright Marine Services Charged (video)
February 8 -- Tug Company, senior official charged in fatal 2021 sinking off northwest BC coast
February 8 -- Charges announced in fatal tugboat sinking (audio)
February 7 -- Ingenika Regulations (video)
February 7 -- Charges laid in fatal BC tugboat sinking that claimed 2 lives 
February 7 -- Workplace safety charges approved against BC tugboat owners in fatal sinking 
February 7 -- Wainwright Marine Services and Director Bates facing eight charges on 2021 Ingenika sinking NCR
February 7 -- Charges laid against Tugboat Ingenika Operator 2 years after fatal sinking, MP Taylor Bachrach calls on Feds to Better protect workers 
February 7 -- Charges laid in fatal 2021 Ingenika tugboat sinking 

2022

-

September 

September 27 -- Widow of man who died in tugboat sinking calls for more oversight after boat's owner fined $52K
September 27 -- Prince Rupert's Wainwright Marine Service Ltd. fined $52K in fatal Ingenika sinking
September 27 -- Transport Canada issues $62,000 in penalties in tugboat sinking 
September 27 -- MP Taylor Bachrach calls for stricter Federal Regulations after fine issued over Ingenika Tugboat crash falls short
September 27 -- 52,000 dollar fine for Wainwright Marine On Ingenika Incident has Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP calling for stricter regulations  NCR

March

April 5 -- The story of the Tug Ingenika makes for Union Video sounding the siren for more protection for maritime workers NCR

2021

July

July 26 -- Flotilla forming to pay tribute to Troy Pearson on Prince Rupert Harbour this coming weekend  NCR

April

April 20 -- MP Taylor Bachrach takes concerns over tugboat Ingenika to House of Commons Question Period  NCR
April 12 -- Transportation Safety Board of Canada Investigation into the sinking of the tug Ingenika underway  NCR

April 11 --  'Race to the bottom': Weak Federal regulations compromise safety of BC tugboats

April 9 -- Tugboat tragedy raises questions about safety on B.C. coast

March

March 19 -- Coastal First Nations worried sunken tugboat could leak fuel
March 18 -- Transportation Safety Board expanding investigation into Kitimat tugboat tragedy
March 17 -- He's gone for ever': Mother of BC man killed in tugboat sinking wants answers
March 15 --  Sinking Tugboat Investigation (video)
March 15 -- Transportation Safety Board to investigate tugboat (video)
March 15 -- Almost 10,000 signatures petition to raise sunken tug Ingenika  
March 6 -- Widow wants sunken tugboat recovered, hopes it holds answers about husband's death
March 4 -- Tugboat Petition (video)
March 4 -- Petition launched in support of retrieving sunken tugboat
March 4 -- Widow of mariner starts petition to raise sunken tug (audio)
March 2 -- Petition crated to recover tugboat
March 2 -- A change.org petition looks to raise sunken tug boat from Gardener Canal in quest for answers to marine incident of February 11th NCR

February

February 25 -- Tug union demands Transport Canada protect workers along BC coast and rivers

February 12 -- Tugboat fatalities in Kitimat (video)
February 11 -- 2 dead after tugboat incident south of Kitimat, RCMP say

February 11 -- Two dead following tugboat incident in the Gardner Canal 

February 11 -- Two bodies recovered after tugboat goes missing off BC's north Coast near Kitimat

February 11 -- Tugboat 'incident' near Kitimat, leaves two me dead: RCMP

February 11 -- 2 dead after tugboat incident south of Kitimat

February 11 -- Two confirmed dead in tugboat capsizing near Kitimat

February 11 -- Large Scale Search and Rescue operation south of Kitimat following marine incident NCR

February 11 -- Two men are deceased following a tugboat incident in the Gardner Canal near Kemano (RCMP statement)

Transportation Safety Board of Canada Investigation into the sinking of the tug Ingenika underway

The official investigation into the sinking of the Wainwright Tug Vessel Ingenika is now underway, with the National Transportation Safety Board of Canada taking the lead into trying to determine what led to the marine incident that claimed two lives on February 11, 2021.

The tug working out of Kitimat was towing a loaded barge, Miller 204 through Gardner Canal, sinking 16 nautical miles ease of Gribell Island in the early morning hours of February 11th. 

The incident brought a Search and Rescue mission to the scene as emergency responders transited the area looking for survivors. 

Two of the crew members of the Ingenika, Troy Pearson from Prince Rupert and  Charley Cragg from Terrace both perished in the incident. 

A third member of the Ingenika crew, Zac Dolan also of Prince Rupert was rescued by a private helicopter that was participating in the search efforts, he continues on with his recovery period.

The barge was later found aground three nautical miles southwest from the position of the tug when it sank.

Tasked with the review of the incident is Mohan Raman, a Senior investigator with the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, he has been investigating marine incidents on the coast since 2011.

He also has previous experience with Transport Canada and BC Ferries.

The investigation, which began in late March is listed as a Class 4 Investigation. 

Those reviews are limited in scope and  while the final reports may contain limited analysis, they generally do not contain findings or recommendations.

The TSB investigation process is explained as follows:

Click to enlarge

The path that the investigation follows is detailed here, an information  page which outlines the methods involved in reviewing the marine incident as well as who the Transportation Safety Board will contact as part of their process towards a final report.

Click to enlarge

The home page for the TSB of Canada review of the Ingenika incident can be found here.

The Transportation Safety Board notes that a Class Four investigation normally is completed within 220 days of its launch, which would make a release for the delivery of their findings to be sometime in mid-October.

Since the sinking of the vessel, we have been tracking information related to the incident on an archive page, you can review the latest additions that we have added to our listings here.

More calls for Federal Government to address safety issues in marine towing industry following Transportation Safety Board report on Ingenika

The Transportation Safety Board released its report into the sinkin
of the Wainwright Tugboat Ingenika today
(image from TSB)

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada released its findings into the February 10, 2021 sinking of the Wainwright Tug MV Ingenika. 

The marine incident one which claimed the lives of Mariners Troy Pearson and Charley Cragg and left a third member of the crew, Zac Dolan hospitalized.

The report from today provided some additional background towards the conditions of the day and the nature of the work that the tug  was taking on in its part of its transit of Gardener Canal between Kitimat and Kemano. 

A pair of paragraphs from the report notes of the lack of requirements currently in place and the dangers that continues to bring to the industry.

Since 2015, the TSB has investigated six occurrences involving tugs of 15 GT or less operating on the west coast of Canada that have raised concerns around the adequacy of regulatory surveillance, a systemic safety issue that has been on the TSB Watchlist since 2010.

The TSB has also noted that there is currently no requirement for towing companies to assess any of the risks that might be present in their operations. This means that risks in towing operations will continue to go undetected and unmitigated, placing crews, tugs, tows, and the environment at risk.

The TSB then identified four areas for action from the Industry and the Ministry of Transportation.

Expand its surveillance program to include regular inspections of tugs of 15 gross tonnage or less to verify that these vessels are complying with regulatory requirements.

Require authorized representatives of tugs of 15 GT or less to assess the risks present in their operations, including the suitability of their tugs for the specific towing operations they are undertaking. 

The TSB also had recommendations for the Pacific Pilotage Authority: 

Verify that eligibility requirements are met before issuing pilotage waivers to companies operating tugs in compulsory pilotage areas. 

Implement a process to verify ongoing compliance with waiver conditions by companies operating tugs in compulsory pilotage areas. 

The full report can be reviewed here.

The overview from the TSB of Canada left Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP quite angered at the final findings from the Safety Board officials.

“I’m infuriated at the details contained in the TSB’s report. It paints a stark picture of negligence by both the vessel’s owner and the federal government — negligence that cost two workers their lives. I won’t rest until there is accountability and justice.” 

One of the key elements of the Safety Board  investigations to note how the  Ingenika’s crew were not adequately trained, onboard survival equipment had not been maintained, and the vessel was underpowered for the barge it was towing

“For years, the TSB has warned the Transport Minister about safety concerns related to smaller tugboats, but the government’s weak response so far has included only voluntary measures. The fact that two years have passed without the minister putting in place stricter rules is nothing short of shameful,” 

The Skeena Bulkley Valley MP who participated in a press conference following the decision called on federal transport minister Omar Alghabra to immediately implement all of the Transportation Safety Board’s recommendations, which include mandatory inspections for tugboats under 15 tons. 

He also called for increased enforcement presence by Transport Canada, and higher fines for non-compliance.

 “We can’t allow this Minister to continue his government’s legacy of foot-dragging and corporate capture that has persisted for far too long. Protecting worker safety cannot be voluntary — it must be mandatory. The mariners who board these vessels every single day on our coast deserve to come home to their families.”

Participating in todays conference along with the MP were members of the ILWU along with the families of both Mr. Pearson and Mr. Cragg. 

Judy Carlick-Pearson, spoke to the need to ensure that companies are liable for their actions 

"For me it's to try to understand why the sentencing and the fines are so low for these companies, to commit something as heinous and be charged with something so minimal. 

In other countries, the fines are so much more than in Canada and they're protected under WorkSafe.

It's not good, we've got to get out that so that companies and corporations are being held liable and thinking twice about being negligent in their operations"

All of those speaking  highlighted the failure of the government to provide proper oversight of the industry and called for the Ministry of Transportation to take action on the recommendations. 

The press conference can be viewed below:

You can review the history of the Ingenika incident from our archive page.

MP Taylor Bachrach takes concerns over tugboat Ingenika to House of Commons Question Period

Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach speaking 
to the House of Commons from Smithers  on Monday

The discussion on the sinking of the tugboat Ingenika has made it to the House of Commons, with MP Taylor Bachrach raising a range of concerns related to the tragic events in waters near Kitimat in February.

Particpating as part of Question Period on Monday, the MP for Skeena-Bulkley Valley spoke to the loss of life of Prince Rupert's Troy Pearson and Terrace resident Charley Cragg, calling for additional safety measures for those who work the waters aboard tugs.

"This tragic incident has brought to light the lack of regulations for tugboats below fifteen tonnes, workers have shared stories of poor maintenance, inadequate training and tugs operating in unsafe conditions. We must use the lessons of this tragedy to improve safety for all tugboat crews working on our coasts"

As part of his time on the theme, Mr. Bachrach asked for the federal government to commit to immediate action on safety concerns.

In reply Transport  Minister Omar Alghabra relayed the condolences of the government to the families and advised that his department and the Department of Oceans and Fisheries were working to address the situation and called on MP Bachrach to provide further input towards moving forward.

As we outlined last week, the Canadian Transportation Safety Board has begun its investigation into the February sinking, a process that could take investigators through the summer and into the fall before any findings are released.

The third member of the crew of the Ingenika Zac Dolan from Prince Rupert was rescued as part of the search response to the sinking following the vessel in distress call, he continues with his recovery.

 

You can review more notes on the sinking of the Ingenika from our archive page here.

Wainwright Marine Services and Director Bates facing eight charges on 2021 Ingenika sinking

With the anniversary of the 2021 sinking of the Tugboat Ingenika just days away, Wainwright Marine Services and Director James Geoffrey Bates have seen eight Workers Compensation Act charges filed in Prince Rupert Court related to a number of safety related areas.

The counts which were introduced on Monday, include:

Failure to ensure the health and safety of workers

Failure to maintain protective equipment, which include immersion suits and a tow abort system aboard the vessel

Failure to train and supervise workers on safety procedures,  including how to use the suits designed to improve chances of survival in an emergency

Failure to give young or new workers proper health and safety training

Failure to have a written plan for a water emergency where rescue or evacuation might be needed

Failure to hold and record annual emergency drills 

The charges fall under the Workers Compensation Act and are not criminal charges.

The maximum amount that a fine could bring is $770,000, as well as a potential 6 months in jail, the charges have not been proven in court.

Wainwright was previously fined by Transport Canada in September of 2022 with three sanctions, along with one for Bates Properties.

Update: In an RCMP information release on February 10th,  the full listing of the charges was provided, as well as to release the date of the next court appearance which is set for March 15, 2023.

click to enlarge

The tug sank in the waters of Gardner Canal in the early morning hours of February of 2021, the tragic marine incident claimed the lives of tug captain Troy Pearson and deckhand Charley Cragg, a third member of the crew, Zac Dolan was rescued after an extensive search by Emergency Responders and others.

Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach made note of the charges that have been laid as part of Question Period in the House of Commons today, addressing his questions to the Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra.

“The charges announced today are an important step in achieving justice for the families of Troy Pearson and Charley Cragg. 

The government and justice system must use every tool available to hold negligent companies accountable and protect workers’ lives."

The MP  also reminded the government that the legal proceedings alone will not be enough to protect mariners who operate tugboats like the Ingenika on B.C.’s coast. 

“Holding one company accountable isn’t enough to protect mariners who work up and down the BC coast. For years, workers have been calling for stronger federal regulations, for mandatory inspections and for proper enforcement. 

Two years passed. Two workers dead. And this Minister hasn’t changed a single safety measure. Why?” 

A memorial event is scheduled for February 10th in Prince Rupert to mark the second anniversary of the sinking of the Ingenika. 

Details towards that event have yet to be shared publicly to this point.

Background on the incident can be explored from our archive page

Blog Watching: Week ending October 2, 2022

Politics took a back seat to some hopes for improved recreation access in the community and just the prospect of a new recreation area for Port Edward had a large number of readers exploring the plan and hoping for a successful conclusion for the proposal.

Our notes on the election campaign gained a large volume of attention this week, with both our review of the Prince Rupert Mayor's and Council candidate's themes from Monday's Election Forum proving to be a poplar pair of items on the week.

Transport Canada released details of a fine for a Prince Rupert marine operation, with Wainwright Marine fined following an investigation into the sinking of the MV Ingenika which claimed two lives last year. The low amount assessed for the fine bringing the issue of marine safety in coastal waters back to public attention.

The month long petition campaign on the theme of the Port Tax Cap pushed forward this week with a one day blitz scheduled for today, the collection of signatures re-framed by the Mayor as a chance to help save the city.

The top item however highlighted the desire of residents to have more recreation access to the waterfront areas of the region, with a proposal from Port Edward gaining some strong interest.

Port Edward application for land use occupation sets stage for potential Recreation area near Galloway Rapids -- The District of Port Edward has some big plans for development of a recreation area not far from the Turnoff at highway 16 that will provide some water access for residents of the region.   (posted  September  27, 2022)

That article was followed by: 

Election Forum: Mayor's Race -- Some separation develops among the four candidates -- Our notes on the Mayoralty candidates  from the Monday Election Forum at the Lester Centre generated a large volume of reads over the week.  Our full archive of election notes can be reviewed here.  Our full archive of election notes can be reviewed here.  (posted September 27, 2022)

 

Election Forum: Council race -- Incumbents want to remain on the team ... challengers just want to join it  -- Our companion  piece on the City Council elements and the candidate's approach to the Forum also found a large audience as the week came to an end.  Our full archive of election notes can be reviewed here.      (posted  September 28, 2022)

52,000 dollar fine for Wainwright Marine on Ingenika incident has Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP calling for stricter regulations -- Transport Canada's announcement of a fine for Prince Rupert based Wainwright Marine on the sinking of the MV Ingenika last year has been received with calls for more oversight on marine tug operations.  (posted September 27, 2022) .

Mayor Brain shifts focus on ScrapTheTasCap from tax justice for the city, to Saving the City -- The month long call for residents to sign a petition initiative related to the Port Tax Cap  continued om this week, with Prince Rupert Mayor Lee Brain shifting some of the focus with a familiar theme of late for his work at City Hall. You can follow some of the past notes on the Port Tax Cap theme here. ( posted September 29,  2022)

You can find our weekly Blog watching feature posted every Sunday morning by 9AM, making for a handy way to catch up to the week that was, at a leisurely weekend pace.

You can also review the full listings of the week just past, from our Blog Archive index page found on the right hand side of the page.

A note for those that previously used our email alert delivery option, Blogger has discontinued that feature, so we direct you to our CharlesMHays Twitter feed, where we post updates to the blog as we post them.

Our archive of weekly Blog Watching can be found here.    

To view the most recent blog posting of the day, click here.

The story of the Tug Ingenika makes for Union Video sounding the siren for more protection for maritime workers

An international maritime union is noting the sinking of the
tug Ingenika as part of their quest for tug worker safety

The tragic events of the Tugboat Ingenika on February 10th 2021 are the focus for a video from the International Transportation Federation which highlights the story of Troy Pearson and Charley Cragg in a call of attention to the dangerous conditions facing those who work the waters on Tug Boats.

The pair of mariners perished in the waters in Gardner Canal during the incident, a third member of their Crew Zac Doolan was discovered as part of the search for survivors and taken to hospital, he continues to recover from the incident.

The video calls attention to a range of concerns that the union has when it comes to what they describe as a towage industry in crisis.

In the video Judy-Carlick Pearson, Troy's widow provides the narrative to the story providing background to the work of the industry, the situation at the time of the incident and shares the sense of loss that the incident has brought to her and her son.

The video issues a call for more protection for those who work in the towage industry.

It is one of a number of maritime safety videos available from the ITF website.

The incident of 2021 remains under active investigation  by the Transportation Safety Board, but as of yet no Final Report has been delivered by the Federal Agency with no release date noted on the TSB website.

A look at some past items of note related to the incident and investigation can be explored here.

MP Taylor Bachrach continues push for stronger tugboat safety measures

Tomorrow is the Day of National Mourning,  an event marked Nationally across the country and dedicated to those who have lost their lives while at work.

Today during Question Period in the House of Commons, NDP Transport Critic and Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach once again, called on the Liberal Government to improve safety regulations for tugboats.

The MP speaking to the delay in implementation of recommendations from a Transportation Safety Board report from earlier this year following the 2021 deaths of Troy Pearson and Charlie Cragg on the tugboat Ingenika. 

That report, released on March 8th made four recommendations to protect mariner safety. 

Expand its surveillance program to include regular inspections of tugs of 15 gross tonnage or less to verify that these vessels are complying with regulatory requirements.

Require authorized representatives of tugs of 15 GT or less to assess the risks present in their operations, including the suitability of their tugs for the specific towing operations they are undertaking. 

The TSB also had recommendations for the Pacific Pilotage Authority: 

Verify that eligibility requirements are met before issuing pilotage waivers to companies operating tugs in compulsory pilotage areas. 

Implement a process to verify ongoing compliance with waiver conditions by companies operating tugs in compulsory pilotage areas. 

The full report can be reviewed here.

In his time in the House today, the MP reminded the Commons of the tragedy on the Gardner Canal two years ago and the lack of movement towards implementing safety recommendations that came out the Transportation Safety Board Investigation. 

 “Tomorrow is the National Day of Mourning — a day when we remember those who have been killed or injured on the job. Workers like Troy Pearson and Charlie Cragg who were killed when the tugboat Ingenika sank near Kitimat. 

It’s been a month and a half since the Transportation Safety Board issued four recommendations to prevent similar deaths. Every day, workers are boarding vessels just like the Ingenika. Their lives hang in the balance. 

Will the minister stand today and finally commit to implementing all four recommendations?”

The short reply from Transport Minister Omar Alghabra didn't provide for a timeline as to when the recommendations would be delivered by way of action as recommended.

Mr. Bachrach's Question and the reply from Transport Minister Omar Alghabra cane be viewed from the question Period video replay starting at the thirty minute mark.

More background on the 2021 sinking can be explored through our archive page.

Items of interest from the House of Commons can be reviewed here.

Rally to commemorate Mariners Lost at Sea planned for Friday morning at Mariner's park

Mariner's Park overlooking Prince Rupert Harbour will be the host
for a Rally tomorrow morning to remember the lives of Troy Pearson and 
Charley Cragg who perished at sea with the sinking of the Ingenika in 2021

The continued call for Justice for Troy Pearson and Charley Cragg will be the main focus for an 11AM Mariner's Lost at Sea Rally at Mainers Park tomorrow.

The pair of North Coast Mariners lost their lives on February 11th of 2021 when their tugboat the Ingenika sank in Gardner Canal south of Kitimat.

The focus for tomorrows gathering will be to remember them and to continue the call for more stringent regulations and enforcement of them for those who work on the water.

A number of guests will be taking part and speaking  as part of the late morning Friday rally.

Included among them will be Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach, who has spoken often of the tragedy in the House of Commons and continues the call for the Federal government to improve on the legislation governing the industry.

The Member of Parliament will be joined by joined by the President of the International Longshore & Warehouse Union Local 400 Marine Section, Jason Woods; National President of the International Longshore & Warehouse Union, Rob Ashton; Secretary Treasurer of the BC Federation of Labour Harminder Singh Kailey; and families of the victims of the sinking of the Ingenika.

To underscore the importance of the Rally at Mariner's Park tomorrow, just this week, charges were filed at the Prince Rupert Court  House with Wainwright Marine Services and its Director James Geoffrey Bates facing eight safety related charges under the Workers Compensation Act.

Notes on the tragedy of two years ago, along with recent updates to the incident can be found through our archive page.

52,000 dollar fine for Wainwright Marine on Ingenika incident has Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP calling for stricter regulations

The Gardner Canal south of Kitimat marks the final resting spot for the
MV Ingenika, a marine incident claimed two lives in February 2021
Today Transport Canada announced the fine assessed to Prince Rupert
based Wainwright Marine

The evolution of events that led up to the sinking of the tugboat Ingenika in February of 2021 has brought a 52,000 dollar fine to tugboat Operator Wainwright Marine, an amount just 8,000 dollars below the maximum allowed that has left Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach and the families of those who perished calling for tougher regulations to provide more protection for marine workers.

The Northwest MP provided the details of the Transport Canada report and actions today through an information release that expressed his thoughts for the families of Troy Pearson and Charley Cragg. 

The two mariners who died as a result of the 2021 sinking in Gardner Canal, a third crew member Zac Dolan was later rescued by emergency responders.

 “My thoughts today are with Troy and Charley’s families, and with all the men and women who work on tugboats up and down our coast. While the investigation clearly showed the company acted recklessly, a fine alone won’t create safer conditions for workers. They need strong, consistently enforced federal regulations and they needed them yesterday.” -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach

Troy Pearson and Charley Cragg died as a result of the sinkin
of MV Ingenkia in the waters of the Gardner Canal in 
February of 2021
(photo courtesy Taylor Bachrach Social Media Feed)

Transport Canada's information release today notes of three areas of sanction for Wainwright Marine and one sanction for Bates Properties Limited: 

Failing to ensure that the vessel is staffed with a crew that is sufficient and competent for the safe operation of the vessel on its intended voyage. 

Failing to ensure that the person who is employed on board a Canadian vessel for which a certificate is required holds the certificate for that position and certificate comply with its term and condition. 

Jeopardizing the safety of a vessel or of persons on board.

click to enlarge

The Skeena Bulkley Valley MP's statement (which you can review here) also noted of the the areas where the legislation governing commercial vessels needs to be improved, with statements from the families of the two mariners who died also speaking to the need for improved safety and how their fight for Justice is not over.

“Transport Canada's investigation and the resulting penalties are a clear indicator of the injustice committed against my son and his skipper. These penalties are only the start. Ultimately, we need to see change within Canada's marine shipping industry, specifically related to the tugs and crews working tirelessly up and down B.C.’s coastal waters. 

I will not stop, nor will I rest until I see a new safety culture in place as part of Charley's legacy. He died as a result of this systemic injustice. He paid the ultimate price with his life, and it is now time for change,”--  Genevieve Cragg, the mother of Charley Cragg

 “I'm glad Transport Canada determined Wainwright Marine was negligent in its operations but I’m very disappointed the maximum fine for such negligence is only $60,000. How will companies ever learn if they get a slap on the hand?

Our fight for justice isn't over. We will continue to promote that more changes be made. Ultimately, fines of such a low value need to be increased to at least $250,000. If not, companies won't feel the brunt and will continue to be negligent." --  Judy Carlick Pearson, the wife of Troy Pearson

Ms. Carlick-Pearson has kept the issue at the forefront of the discussion often since the events of one year ago, holding vigils in Prince Rupert and raising awareness for stricter marine regulations for the industry.

The vessel remains at the bottom of the canal, yet to be raised despite calls from many for the investigators to bring the vessel to the surface.

Mr. Bachrach has vowed to continue to raise the issue in the House of Commons and in the range of Committees that address safety issues on Parliament Hill.

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada has been conducting an investigation into the incident, but has yet to release the findings of that investigation.

Our archive of notes from the incident can be reviewed here, we will update the listings as more items become available following todays announcement.

From the House of Commons: 2023

Items of Note, both local and national about the work of Taylor Bachrach, the NDP MP for Skeena - Bulkley Valley in the capital, as well as other items from the Federal Governments actions which may impact on the Northwest.

Skeena Bulkley Valley
MP Taylor Bachrach (NDP)

Skeena Bulkley Valley website
Taylor Bachrach Facebook page
Taylor Bachrach Twitter feed


General Overview of notes of interest on the Federal Political Scene
(From our political blog D'Arcy McGee)



2023

December

December 19 -- If it's Tuesday ... it must be Sudbury! MP Taylor Bachrach's Cross Canada Train Trip heads west NCR

December 15 -- Bachrach Train bill (video)

December 15 -- Riding the rails (audio)

December 15 -- Former national firearms association president says Bill C-21 an attack on law abiding gun owners 

December 14 --  MP Taylor Bacharach tables bill towards priority for passenger rail transportation  NCR

December 12 --  MP Taylor Bachrach, NDP take a victory lap on the successful delivery of Dental Care Plan in House of Commons  NCR

December  9 -- MP talks about Red Dress Alert campaign in Northern BC

December 7 -- MP Bachrach pushes for watershed security 

November

November 30 -- MLA/MP set to share Good Holiday cheer Friday at Prince Rupert constituency office NCR

November 24 -- Labour One Step Closer to gaining voice on Port Authority Boards NCR

November 22 -- Federal Economic Statement seeks to buy Liberals some time to right their ship  NCR

November 21 -- Airline practices towards persons with disabilities gain wrath of NDP in Parliament NCR

November 20 -- Red Dress Alert campaign started by Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP 

November 17 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach pushes for Red Dress Alert through Post card campaign  NCR

November 10 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP advocates for Tax Deduction for Haida Gwaii NCR
November 8 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP calls for tax relief for home heating in House of Commons speech NCR

November 2 -- NDP confirm Taylor Bachrach for Skeena-Bulkley Valley nomination. 

October

October 31 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP to run in 2025 election 

October 31 -- Taylor Bachrach secures nomination as NDP candidate for Skeena-Bulkley Valley for next Federal Election NCR

October 23 -- Northern farmers get federal support funding following months of advocacy from Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach 

October 20 -- All Premiers join Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP  in calling for extension to repayment deadline for pandemic era small business loans  

October 20 -- Federal financial assistance coming to farmers affected by drought 

October 19 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach takes Tuesday's water line failure to the House of Commons  NCR

October 13 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP helps spread message on CEBA from Prince Rupert and District chamber  NCR

October 13 -- Lax Kw'alaams officials and guests cut the ribbon for much anticipated apartment project on 11th Avenue East NCR

October 12 -- Interest building towards Federal Skeena-Bulkley Valley Conservative nomination NCR

October 6 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach continues fight for improved Air Passenger protections as he tables new petition 

October 5 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach questions minister on delays in funding critical Northwest infrastructure projects 

October 5 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach raises Prince Rupert infrastructure concerns once again as part of Parliamentary Committee session NCR

October 3 -- NDP leader Jagmeet Singh highlights plan to deal with rising grocery costs during Terrace visit

September

September 26 -- House of Commons debacle making for tough questions for Skeena-Bukley Valley MP NCR

September 21 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach again calls for Federal Support for Northern farmers amid continued drought  

September 21 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Bachrach puts focus on Northwest farming for first day of new session of Parliament NCR

September 19 -- Conservatives, NDPers provide for campaign like ambience in post Poilievre visit period NCR

September 19 -- Northwest BC Chamber of Commerce offices to work together for Regional Economy NCR

September 18 -- Conservative leader visits Smithers 

September 18 -- Prince Rupert and District Chamber of Commerce responds to recent Federal moves on CEBA repayments NCR

September 15 --  Federal Conservative leader in Terrace (video)

September 15 -- Federal Conservative leader rallies support in northwest BC

September 15 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach says business loan extension still falls short of helping many small businesses

September 15 -- Federal Government extends repayment period and partial loan forgiveness towards Canada Emergency Business Account Program NCR

September 15 -- As Pierre Poilievre tour wraps for the Northwest; Skeena Bulkley Valley MP calls. up the Conservative leaders voting record NCR

September 14 -- Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre visits Smithers on northern BC tour

September 13 -- Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre to host rally in Terrace 

September 11 -- Northwest Conservative delegates make way back west after Quebec City convention NCR

September 6 -- Latest polling for Northwest BC indicates a change could be coming to Skeena-Bulkley Valley with the next Federal election  NCR

August

August 18 -- Water infrastructure upgrades underway in Telkwa 

August 17 -- Tugboat Operator and Director reach plea deal over charges stemming from fatal 2021 sinking of the Ingenika near Kitimat 

August 17 -- Prince Rupert Court hears guilty pleas from Wainwright Marine and company executive NCR
August 17 -- Tugboat operator and Director reach plea deal on charges stemming from fatal 2021 sinking go the Ingenika near Kitimat 
August 17 -- Mariner's mother says the legal process doesn't equal justice (audio)

July

July 27 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP calling for provincial and federal assistance for northern  BC farmers 

July 27 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach calls for Federal support for Farmers impacted by drought in Northwest BC

July 26 -- Marc Miller shifted out of Crown-Indigenous relations ministry as part of extensive cabinet overhaul 

July 19 -- Senate Committee released report highlighting a shortage of Residential School records disclosed by Organizations 

July 19 -- Haida Nation, Federal Government and Province sign Recognition Agreement NCR

July 19 -- "We should not be here" --  All eyes turn to Ottawa as BC Port workers return to the picket lines NCR

July 19 -- Former Banks Island Mining executive to receive sentencing in September NCR

July 18 -- Federal Government takes a few seats at the Lester Centre with 85,000 dollar grant towards 'Please Be Seated' initiative  NCR

July 17 -- Hōkūle'a Crew Host Open House at Cow Bay today NCR

July 14 -- Activity ramps up at DP World Fairview facility as BC Port strike ends NCR

July 13 -- With rise in interest rates, Skeena Bulkley Valley MP reissues call for CEBA extension for small business  NCR

July 12 -- Taylor Bachrach stops in Houston 

July 12 -- MP Taylor Bachrach once again calls for delay to COVID small business Loan Repayments amid rising interest rates 

July 6 -- MP Taylor Bachrach renews calls to improve Rail Safety on 10th Anniversary of the Lac-Magnetic Disaster 

July 6 -- On tenth anniversary of Lac Megantic disaster, Taylor Bachrach reminds on need for stronger rail laws, lack of action by Federal Government NCR

July 4 -- Port talks break off,  all eyes on Federal Government for next move ... NCR

June

June 30 -- Skeena Bulkley Valley MP calls for Federal Government to ensure of an equitable deal in port dispute  NCR

June 28 -- Skeena Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach kicks off Summer tour 

June 28 -- Summer means travelling times for Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP  NCR

June 21 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach calls for extension of CEBA loan repayment deadline for small business owners  NCR

June 20 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach calls for extension to COVID loan repayments for small businesses

June 16 -- Pride month celebrated in Kitimat with second ever Pride Prom

June 16 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach calls on Ottawa to better fund rural post offices to keep them operating 

June 14 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach says new NDP Pharmacare bill would save Canadians $500 per year 

June 8 -- Mail trouble (audio)

June 7 -- MP Taylor Bachrach calls on Liberals to stop requesting CERB repayments from Canadians Living with Disabilities 

June 7 -- Northwest MP Bachrach calls out Federal Government on CERB clawbacks on the vulnerable NCR

June 6 -- Bill tabled in the House aiming to establish a National Indigenous Teachers Day based offf of a student submission 

June 5 -- Ottawa releases progress report on Fourth Anniversary of the release of the MMIWG Final report 

June 2 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach presents petition calling for Port workers representation on Authority Boards 

June 2 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP presents petition calling for union representation on Port Authority Boards across Canada  NCR

June 1 -- MP Taylor Bachrach, NDP disappointed at Federal report on National Bus Trasportation planning NCR

May

May 31 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach disappointed in recommendations in committee report on Inter Regional Bus Service 

May 25 -- New northern BC passport office opens doors in Prince George 

May 18 -- Prince George passport office up and running 

May 17 -- MP Taylor Bachrach hails opening of Northern BC Passport office in Prince George NCR

May 16 -- With proposed  Bill C-48 Federal Government seeks to strengthen nation bail system NCR

May 11 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach to visit Atlin to discuss rural post service needs as they struggle to replace burned down post office 

May 4 -- Bachrach backs Red Dress Alert System as Bulkey Valley prepares to mark Red Dress Day

May 2 -- House unanimously passes motion to recognize Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and girls as Canada-wide Emergency 

April 

--

April 27 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachraach renews calls for tugboat regulation  ahead of National Day of Mourning 

April 27 -- MP Taylor Bachrach continues push for stronger tugboat safety measures  NCR

April 24 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach says new Legislation still falls short of protecting Air Passengers in Canada 

April 24 -- Bachrach notes of loopholes in Liberal Air Transportation legislation; launches petition to seek changes in Bill  NCR

April 19 -- Taylor Bachrach keeps Prince Rupert's infrastructure challenges on the Front Burner in Ottawa, with Federal Minister looking towards short term and loner term options for assistance NCR

April 19 -- Federal workers hit the strike lines as talks break down between government and workers NCR

April 18 -- New Parliamentary report on Air Passenger protections echoes calls from Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach  

April 11 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach joins calls to limit foreign ownership of commercial fishing licenses on West Coast 

April 11 -- Federal NDP call for ban on transfer of commercial fishing licences to foreign fishers  NCR

March

March 31 -- People with disabilities face greater accessibility challenges in rural and Northern communities  

March 30 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP notes of NDP initiatives in 2023 Federal Budget  NCR

March 29 -- Budget 2023 will see attempts at technology legislation

March 29 -- Budget 2023 shows indigenous investments and a decrease in poverty

March 29 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach calls for assistance for Houston in House of Commons Statement NCR

March 28 -- Federal Budget 2023: Farewell surplus, as Liberals take on years of deficit ahead to deliver on programs, hedge against future economic challenges NCR

March 28 -- Federal budget tabled, deficit to continue for foreseeable future

March 28 -- Canada capping alcohol excise tax at 2%

March 28 -- Benefits for northern residents in the federal budget announcement

March 28 -- Hopes for Inflation relief, assistance on Housing, Infrastructure atop the wish list for Federal Budget today NCR

March 27 -- Health Care Town Hall Tonight as NDP MP's seek your feedback on health care themes and issues NCR

March 22 -- Ottawa renews commitment to ending long-term drinking advisories, celebrates Indigenous Water Operators on World Water Day

March 22 -- Council offers much in way of gratitude for Province's 65 million dollar waterline funding; warn of orange of other challenges still to take on NCR

March 21 -- Weekend visit by Federal Transport Committee to Prince Rupert provides glimpse of trade corridor importance, along with challenges for communities that are home to facilities  NCR

March 21 -- MP Taylor Bachrach tables bill which would ensure air passengers are compensated for cancelled or delayed flights 

March 21 -- Lack of 'meaningful discussions' takes British Columbia Port Negotiations to a request for a Federal conciliation officer NCR
March 21 -- UFAWU-Unifor led petition on foreign ownership of fishing license to be presented to House of Commons on Wednesday  NCR

March 20 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach to introduce Private member's bill to seek Air Passenger protections NCR

March 16 -- Parliamentary Transportation Committee set for St. Patrick's Day tour of Prince Rupert Port Facilities  NCR

March 10 -- Federal Court approves $2.8 Billion Settlement agreement for Band Class of Residential Day Scholars class action

March 10 --North Coast NDP set to welcome Premier Eby and other guests for Mid March event NCR

March 9 -- Town of Smithers mourns loss of former mayor Cress Farrow

March 9 -- Former Mayor of Smithers dies 

March 9 -- "Infuriated' Bachrach demands immediate action surrounding deaths of Prince Rupert tugboat crew

March 8 -- Transportation Safety Board issues four recommendations following final report on fatal sinking of the Tugboat Ingenika 

March 8 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach renews calls for Ottawa to help with Prince Rupert's infrastructure issues 

March 8 -- More calls for Federal Government to address safety issues in marine towing industry, following Transportation Safety Board report on Ingenika NCR

March 7 -- MP Bachrach address Prince Rupert infrastructure sure crisis 

March 7 -- Skeena Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach raises Prince Rupert infrastructure woes in House of Commons  NCR

February

February 28 -- Ottawa introduces new modern treaty implementation policy, co-developed with First Nations, Metis and Inuit partners 

February 27 -- Skeena- Bulkley Valley MP believes proposed alert would benefit the north 

February 23 -- PG passport office still on track for April opening

February 13 -- Union leaders and MP chastise feds for lack of tugboat safety reform at memorial for deceased tug crew members

February 10 -- MP and Unions call on Ottawa to Better protect tugboat workers on Second Anniversary of fatal Ingenika sinking 

February 10 -- Mariner's Park rally brings many together to remember lives lost, call for action to bring more safety to marine industry NCR

February 9 -- Northwest BC MP steps into new deputy critic role for fisheries and oceans 

February 8 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP wants salmon populations to improve 

February 8 -- MP calls for EI changes for Houston, Chetwynd workers 

February 7 -- Double Duty for Bachrach, as Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP takes on additional role as NDP Deputy critic on Fisheries  NCR

February 7 -- Wainwright Marine Services and Director Bates facing eight charges on 2021 Ingenika sinking NCR

February 6 -- MP Taylor Bachrach appointed NDP Deputy crit8c for the DFO and Canadian coastguard 

February 6 -- New Central Coast Marine Refuge area created, region to be closed to all fishing  NCR

February 3 -- Northern BC voices heard about recent amendments to Bill C-21

February 2 -- Bachrach on support for Mill workers (video)

February 2 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach calls for EI help for families in Bulkley Valley impacted by Canfor Mill Closure  NCR

February 1 -- Federal Government pushed to aid those affected by recent Canfor Closures

February 1 -- MP Taylor Bachrach calls for changes to Employment Insurance to support sawmill workers in Houston and Chetwynd

February 1 -- Concerns over Federal Liberal backtracking on Salmon Farms spurs letter writing plans  NCR

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
January

January 31 -- MP Taylor Bachrach chastises Liberals in Question Period for allowing airlines to exploit loopholes to avoid Payin Passenger compensation 

January 31 -- With return of Parliament, Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach takes up cause of airline passengers once again NCR

January 19 -- MP Taylor Bachrach calls for Federal funding to replace Prince Rupert's water infrastructure, joining provincial officials 

January 19 -- Bachrach calls on Feds to step up with funding to help Prince Rupert's infrastructure woes

January 19 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP joins chorus calling on Federal assistance for Prince Rupert's infrastructure issues  NCR

January 13 -- MP Taylor Bachrach speaks to range of topics in Prince Rupert Chamber of Commerce Podcast appearance  NCR

January 12 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach calls for an overhaul of Air Passenger Protections, including automatic compensation 

January 12 -- Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach calls for automatic compensation when flights are delayed NCR

January 12 -- Travel turbulence (audio)

January 10 -- Ottawa introduces new measures to address two calls to Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls 

January 10 -- Province offers to prioritize resources towards Prince Rupert water line woes, if Federal Government partners up towards issue NCR

January 5 -- Taylor Bachrach wants meeting about Transportation (video)

January 4 -- Commons Transport committee chair to call on SunWing and VIA Rail for Tavel disruption explanations 

January 4 -- MP Taylor Bachrach requests urgent meeting to discuss travel woes, after hundreds of Canadians were stranded over the holidays 

January 4 -- Opposition critics call on Transport Minister Omar Alghabra to appear at upcoming meetings on Transportation disruptions over holidays  NCR

Archive items from 2022 can be found here
Archive items from 2021 can be found here

Archive items from 2020 can be found here

Archive items from 2019 can be found here
Archive items from 2018 can be found here
Archive items from 2017 can be found here
Archive items from 2016 can be found here
Archive items from 2015 can be found here
Archive items from 2014 can be found here
Archive items from 2012 and 2013 can be found here


To return to the most recent blog posting of the day, click here.