MV Marathassa spills about 2,700 litres of bunker fuel into English Bay in early April

In response to the MV Marathassa spilling about 2,700 litres of bunker fuel into English Bay in early April, the Musqueam Fisheries Department notified its fishers to get their gear out of the water, including the removal of crab and prawn traps. The Musqueam Nation closed all aquatic harvesting until further notice.

"We are very concerned about how long it took to notify officials and Musqueam about the spill in English Bay," said Chief Wayne Sparrow. "Musqueam must be part of the solution to improve emergency response to spills, accidents and emergencies, especially in our waterways.  Canada has an opportunity to improve this relationship and role with Musqueam."

This recent incident in English Bay highlights the need to improve relationships between Musqueam, Coast Guard, Port Metro Vancouver and the City of Vancouver, reads a press statement from the nation. "We must put the environment and our waters at the forefront. Musqueam has the knowledge and expertise in our waters," Sparrow said.