Think tank calls for Arctic cruise ship code of conduct
Report says cruise ships and private boats need to be better monitored
A non-governmental think tank is calling for a rigorous code of conduct for cruise ships and private boats which enter Canadian Arctic waters.
The Centre for International Governance Innovation has released a policy report based on discussions held with various groups in Iqaluit in May.
John Higginbotham, a senior fellow with the centre, said more needs to be done to ensure cruise ships are carefully monitored.
"In terms of crew training, in terms of sensitivity to aboriginal cultures, in terms of providing benefits for the small communities in the Arctic that they may call upon when they are traveling among the islands," he said.
Higginbotham also said there needs to be better planning for cruise tourism in the north to make sure fragile areas are protected.
He also said facilities are needed to deal with emergencies such as oil spills or cruise ship accidents.