Abstract

After several years of lobbying efforts by underwater archaeological groups throughout Canada, the Department of Communications has recently embarked upon a review of Federal Shipwreck Legislation. In particular, Part X of the Canada Shipping Act may be significantly revised. The new underwater archaeological legislation should be heritage based, providing an enforcement mechanism to protect and possibly enhance Canada's rich but fragile maritime heritage lying under water. British, American and Australian shipwreck legislation will provide models for this new federal initiative. Such heritage based legislation should protect for future generations our cultural resources lying underwater while enhancing our ability to learn about our past, and providing new recreational opportunities. This initiative is an exciting development for the diving, heritage and archaeological communities.