Lighthouse Decision

The federal government is reviewing its decision to remove staff from four lighthouses on the West Coast, including one at Trial Island in Oak Bay.
The federal government announced last month its intention to remove staff at light stations on Trial Island, Entrance Island near Gabriola Island, Dryad Point near Bella Bella and Cape Mudge on Quadra Island.
"Concerns raised regarding additional services provided by lightkeepers have been brought to my attention by a variety of stakeholders," said Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, in a press release issued yesterday.
"We all share the same goals and continue to place the safety of mariners as our top priority."
Shea is asking the Coast Guard to review services provided by lighthouse staff on both coasts. "If following this review it is determined that a staffed presence is the only way to ensure the delivery of services, then this option will receive full consideration," Shea said.
No light stations will lose staff while the review takes place, she said. No estimate was provided on how long the review is expected to take.