Every year, every Sea Fest, the Coast Guard Vessel, the Point Henry, and the Crew, entertain and show off their skill; a constant reminder of their presence and preparedness to rescue our family and friends, our neighbours in need.

This may be the last Sea Fest to share in this delight. The Canadian Government is planning to remove this vessel from the North Coast. The plan is the reduce the size of the crew and replace the Point Henry with a Vessel that has less than half the capability.

The replacement vessel is only 47 feet and has a much less power capability and much less range.

The Point Henry's fuel range allows it to leave port, navigate 200 miles out to sea, then search for a hundred miles before needing to return. This means a range of about 500 miles. The Point Henry also has enough power to pull any stranded vessel, within reason (not a cargo carrier) back to safety.

The vessel planned to replace the Point Henry does not have this power capability and only has a range of 200 miles. This means only 75 miles out, maybe 50 miles of search and then the need to turn home.

The Point Henry has a mini hospital and a full Kitchen with five crew members. The 47 footer has no hospital, only a shelf with a microwave and four crew members. A single rescued sailor takes up all the extra space next to the engine room hatch.

It is only a matter of time before the Federal Government removes this vessel from Prince Rupert. Once gone the Federal Government may bring it back. Last year, the summer of 2010, the Federal Government reduced the requirement for tugs escorting tankers. They determined they could go out with two-man crews when they used to require a four-man crew.

In all likelihood, as the Enbridge Joint Review Panel completes its work and the Federal Government comes to make their decision Marine Safety requirements will be increased. The Federal Government might announce a new Vessel, longer and more capable than the tiny 47 footer will be required and the Point Henry will become a new saviour. Next they will announce they are increasing Tug Boat safety requirements demanding all tugs have a four man crew. The public will likely feel the government has made things better.