Regulations should not be political, their purpose should be to maintain competitiveness and efficiency. There are many examples of government regulations running years behind what technology has made possible. One suggestion is that regulations should be reviewed to ensure that Canadian ships can quickly take advantage of new technology. Shipping is one of the most competitive and flexible industries in the world. Globalization has had a very significant effect on the Canadian shipping industry.
Shipping is the cheapest and most environmentally friendly form of transportation.
This has resulted in the loss of Canadian jobs, particularly in the transportation of iron ore and wheat. It is unrealistic to think we can stem the tide of global trade. However, user charges, taxes and regulations continue to hamper the Canadian industry. Foreign ships have reduced the costs of producing steel, but have brought low-cost competitors into the heart of the continent. Canadian ship owners cannot reduce costs while burdened with excessive regulation and union rigidity.