Shipping firm blames fee hike on federal measures to protect right whales
ST. JOHN’S, N.L. — A Newfoundland shipping firm is raising its fees, blaming higher costs because of federal measures taken to protect North Atlantic right whales after a series of deaths.
Oceanex Inc. says the four-per-cent “temporary marine protection surcharge” on service between Montreal and St. John’s, N.L., follows a federal speed limit imposed last Friday in an area of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Ten of the endangered mammals have died in the gulf since early June — at least some after colliding with ships.
Oceanex says in a release Friday the new regulations mean its vessels must travel more quickly outside the speed-restricted zone.