NEWS RELEASE

Ocean Networks Canada (ONC), run by the University of Victoria, will receive $8.9 million from government to support ongoing research activities.

Established in 2007 by the University of Victoria, ONC manages the NEPTUNE Observatory in the northeast Pacific and the VENUS Observatory in the Salish Sea. Ocean Networks Canada uses innovative engineering, data communication and sensor technologies to gather continuous data and images from the ocean depths, and then streams the live data around the globe.

Ocean Networks Canada has been recognized as a national research platform, and is ranked among the finest in the world in ocean discovery and technological innovation. Continuous observations at key sites in the northeast Pacific Ocean and coastal Salish Sea help to address global challenges, manage marine resources, monitor regional environmental and climate change, and detect hazards to coastal communities.

This investment – part of government’s existing 2012 Budget – leverages UVic’s partnership with the Canada Foundation for Innovation (which funds research infrastructure across Canada, including ONC) and other non-provincial government sources. To date, government has provided almost $48 million in capital funding to the University of Victoria for the undersea cabled observatory project, along with a one-time discretionary grant of $4.4 million in 2008 for NEPTUNE operating costs.

John Yap, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology –

“Investing in the Ocean Networks Canada Observatory helps to support British Columbia’s position as a world leader in science and technology. The data gathered and lessons learned will help further economic development of B.C.’s resources and strengthen the sustainability of our fisheries and ocean environment.”

Ida Chong, MLA for Oak Bay Gordon Head and Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation –

“This observatory provides the tools for us to look into the undersea world in an entirely new way. Our government is pleased to provide this financial support that helps continue the exploration of the ocean’s mysteries.”

David Turpin, president and vice-chancellor, University of Victoria –

“UVic is extremely grateful to the governments of Canada and British Columbia for their commitment and support of major science. This investment ensures that the Ocean Networks Canada Observatory—the VENUS and NEPTUNE Canada subsea networks—remains a leader in global ocean research.”