In the Fall of 2002, COPA succeeded in convincing
Industry Canada officials to review their antenna approval policy and
procedures, given the massive increase in the number of cell towers and other
antennas that are causing conflicts and safety concerns for our members.
The review was initiated early in 2003 but unfortunately, the officials did not
live up to their promise to keep COPA in the loop about the timing of the
consultation. Subsequently, we became aware only recently of the consultation
process and timing.
The Chair for the consultation, Professor David Townsend, of the University of
New Brunswick, agreed to receive a preliminary position paper from COPA, which
is summarized below, but is subject to a possible further submission by the end
of November following publication in the November newspaper and the COPA web
site.
Members are urged to review the issues on the special Web site
www.antennareview.ca, COPA’s
recommendations and then provide feedback to President Kevin Psutka by the end
of November.
Recommendations to the National Antenna Tower Advisory Committee From The
Canadian Owners and Pilots Association: Proponents of new and revised antenna
installations should be required to directly contact all land owners within five
kilometers of a proposed site, to inform them and to seek their input.
Proof of this notice should be demonstrated as part of the approval process.
Newspaper notices are insufficient. Adequate time should be provided for
feedback from landowners in every case.
Industry Canada documentation regarding the approval process should emphasize
that, in addition to existing Transport Canada requirements, it is necessary to
contact all land owners within five kilometers to ensure that all aerodrome
owners are contacted.
Industry Canada should take a more proactive role in encouraging or directing
tower sharing to slow the growth in the number of new sites.
Industry Canada documentation should emphasize that lighting and marking
regulations are the exclusive jurisdiction of Transport Canada and that any
local bylaws, resolutions etc. are over-ridden by the Aeronautics Act.