Safety official raised concerns before sinking
Just a week before the Queen of the North sank off B.C.'s north coast, the head of safety for BC Ferries had expressed concern about the "immense complexity" of bridge equipment on ships.
Darin Bowland – who resigned this week – also cited concerns from officers that training wasn't keeping pace with rapid changes in technology.
- FROM MARCH 28, 2006: Passengers sue BC Ferries for alleged negligence
Bowland is an experienced mariner, having served as a Canadian navy officer, and had also captained large cruise ships in the Caribbean and on the Vancouver-to-Alaska route along the B.C. coast.
Six weeks ago, he became the director of safety, health, and environment for BC Ferries.
On March 14, he was a guest at a meeting of the Nautical Institute at the Tsawwassen ferry terminal.
The group's stated goal is to encourage and promote a high standard of qualification, competence and knowledge among those in control of seagoing craft
Minutes of the institute's March 14 meeting reflect Bowman's safety concerns about the complexity of the equipment and lagging training standards.
"Based on his experience as a Master of a large cruise ship working on the West Coast, he knew of a number of issues of concern to mariners that do not appear to be dealt with by a professional body or association."
"He cited the example of the immense complexity of today's bridge equipment and concerns some officers have that training standards have by no means kept up with the rapid change that is occurring."
 Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon says the timing of the resignation "raises questions." |
"I think the timing certainly raises questions," said B.C. Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon. "I think average people are going to think there must be some link, but there may very well not be."
CBC News has not been able to reach Bowland for an interview.
- FROM MARCH 28, 2006: Fatal ferry sinking sparks speculation
The Queen of the North hit the rock at Gil Island just after midnight on March 22, on an overnight btrip from Prince Rupert to Port hardy. The ship was about a kilometre off course
Two passengers are still missing and presumed dead.
There have been reports the ferry was on autopilot when it sank, and that the bridge crew didn't handle the situation properly, making a series of errors.
The Transportation Safety Board, which is investigating the fatal accident, has said there is no indication of mechanical failure or any problems with the steering equipment.
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