The Council’s role is to formulate and advocate for policies, legislation and regulations that are beneficial to our membership by working with the appropriate government and industrial agencies. This is done by utilizing a wide range of political, bureaucratic and association contacts which have been developed since its inception in 1923 as the British Columbia Tow Boat Owners Association.

These contacts range from field inspectors at Transport Canada, Industry Canada, and the Workers Compensation Board to various ministers and senior officials at all levels of government. The Council maintains links in Canada, the United States and abroad.

CMC also has deep connections to related organizations like the BC  Chamber of Shipping, Chamber of Maritime Commerce, International Ship-Owners Alliance of Canada, Shipping Federation of Canada, , American Waterways Operators, and the various marine exchanges across the US.

Although all member companies benefit from our efforts when we succeed in achieving sensible and appropriate changes and updates to regulations or standards that would apply to the industry as a whole, the Council often works directly with individual members  to craft solutions to their own particular interests and issues.

In addition, the Council may establish and implement safety programs, as well as training and re-training programs for seagoing employees. CMC promotes safety with the adoption of modern methods, devices, rules and regulations conducive to the attainment of member operations.