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Marine Liability Act (MLA)

In March 2000, the Marine Liability Act (MLA) was introduced. The MLA places absolute responsibility and liability for safety, damages, and pollution on the owners and/or operators of vessels; and on owners of docks, canals and ports. Vessel owners and operators are responsible for such things as the safety of their crew and passengers, their cargo, and any pollution created. The MLA provides a uniform method for establishing liability that balances the interests of shipowners and passengers, and is applicable to all incidents governed by Canadian maritime law. The MLA extends north of 60°N. In the event of an inconsistency between the MLA and the provisions of the Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act, or any regulation made under it, the MLA prevails to the extent of the inconsistency.

Marine Liability Act

Fishing boats in ice

Date modified:
2010-01-14