On Saturday we were in Victoria for a wedding. We has some time to kill so we went for a walk on the breakwater. When we got out towards the lighthose at the end there was an large grey RIB sitting tight on the inside. As each and every boat that left or entered the harbour, they would tear out at full boar, with lights flashing, and nearly run the boat over. Most boats were too far away to see exactly what they were checking for as I didn't have binoculars.
So my question is; Are the RCMP allowed to board and search a boat with no probable cause or permission. I am sure they can ask for ID, safety equipment, pleasurecraft op licence and the usual. Is this case at all similar to refusing an automobile search? What would happen if you refused a vessel search? After all, we are minding our own business. How far can they go with all these new port of entry laws?
Dave
So my question is; Are the RCMP allowed to board and search a boat with no probable cause or permission. I am sure they can ask for ID, safety equipment, pleasurecraft op licence and the usual. Is this case at all similar to refusing an automobile search? What would happen if you refused a vessel search? After all, we are minding our own business. How far can they go with all these new port of entry laws?
Dave