Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary Overview

The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary Central & Arctic Region was founded in September 1978, thanks to the backing of the Federal Government. Its primary mission is to provide organized voluntary maritime search and rescue (SAR) services while enhancing safety on the water, acting as Auxiliary support to the Canadian Coast Guard.

The Central and Arctic Region offers services to Ontario, Manitoba, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut Territory.

  • Initially called the Canadian Marine Rescue Auxiliary (CMRA), it was rebranded as the CCGA in 1997.
  • The CCGA-CA operates as a registered charity that depends on volunteers to assist in saving lives.
  • The CCGA-CA collaborates with the Canadian Coast Guard and National Defense.
  • Since 2019, the CCG has been partnering with various First Nations communities to establish the Coastal Nations Coast Guard Auxiliary (CNCGA).

Our Mission

The Iroquois Marine Search and Rescue (IMSAR) Unit is a non-profit organization focused on Search and Rescue (SAR) and promoting SAR Awareness.

Our mission is to provide a 24/7 search and rescue service to address marine needs along the St. Lawrence River, from Long Sault to Prescott, aiming to protect lives by reducing injuries and fatalities.

To fulfill this mission, we strive to:

  • Ensure the safety of everyone in danger;
  • Lower the occurrence and severity of search and rescue situations;
  • Raise awareness and improve practices related to marine safety;
  • Partner with the Canadian Coast Guard;
  • Deliver compassionate humanitarian assistance;
  • Maintain the highest standards of professionalism;
  • Cultivate a strong sense of commitment and pride within our team.

Funding

The organization secures partial funding

through a Contribution Agreement with the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG), which is designated for search and rescue (SAR) operations, training, and insurance coverage.

Nevertheless, all additional expenses, such as equipment and vessel maintenance, must be financed by our members or through fundraising efforts and donations.

CCGA C&A faces challenges in assisting our members with these purchases due to a widespread misconception that we are a government entity. In reality, we are a non-profit organization that serves as an aid to the Canadian Coast Guard.

Our Founder and Commander (Coxswain)

John Bridge, previously a Coxswain with the Oakville Marine Search and Rescue Unit, moved to Iroquois, Ontario, a region identified as needing support by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC). He viewed this as an incredible chance to save lives and help boaters while also pursuing his dream.

Our Volunteers

All of our members are committed Search and Rescue (SAR) trained volunteers. Alongside their regular employment, they willingly sacrifice their leisure time, comfort, and sleep to confront difficult weather conditions in the pursuit of saving lives and assisting mariners on the Seaway. The only compensation the Unit receives is reimbursement for expenses related to Search and Rescue operations.

The organization includes a variety of roles:

• Dedicated volunteers receive comprehensive training for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. Their responsibilities include participating in our training program, being available for emergency calls, performing annual boat safety inspections, and engaging in community events.

•Our management board is made up of committed volunteers from different areas who oversee and manage the auxiliary’s administrative tasks.