Conservatives failing to protect offshore workers

Nearly four years ago a helicopter crashed off the coast of Newfoundland, killing 17 people. Canadian offshore workers are still facing unnecessary risk because the Conservatives have failed to implement key safety recommendations.

“The Transportation Safety Board made important recommendations to help protect Canadians from future deaths or injuries. There is no good reason why the Conservatives have not fully implemented them,” said NDP Defence critic Jack Harris (St. John’s East). “Surely they’re not waiting for another tragedy before they decide to act.”

New federal safety regulations released recently do not follow the recommendation that aircraft be able to operate for 30 minutes after oil has run out. In March of 2009 a Cougar helicopter ran out of oil and crashed off the Newfoundland coast.

“Why is it that offshore workers don't get the protection they deserve? Sikorsky is required to have 30 minute run-dry capability for the new military helicopters - why not for offshore workers?” said Harris. “It is the government’s responsibility to ensure that Canadians who work or travel on the sea have the best safety system possible.”