K’ómoks First Nation is calling for stronger action to protect Baynes Sound from contamination linked to shipbreaking operations in Union Bay.

The Nation says the province has issued more than $95-thousand in fines to Deep Water Recovery Ltd. over the past 6 years for unsafe shipbreaking activities.

But K’ómoks First Nation says the penalties have done little to change the company’s practices.

The Nation says contaminated runoff from the site can flow onto the beach and into the water after rainfall, potentially introducing heavy metals and toxic chemicals into an area that supports shellfish harvesting and local marine food chains.

Chief Councillor Nicole Rempel says existing regulations are failing to adequately protect the land and water.

She says shipbreaking has been contaminating Baynes Sound for 6 years, and is calling on the federal government to strengthen and better enforce regulations governing the industry.

K’ómoks First Nation says there are significant gaps between federal, provincial, and municipal rules, leaving shipbreaking operations in what it describes as a regulatory grey zone with limited enforcement.

The Nation says it has been working with local and provincial regulators for years to address the issue, but is now calling for stronger federal action to stop further contamination.