Canadian sailors banned from drinking at sea

The Canadian navy has enforced a near-total ban on its sailors drinking alcohol at sea following a series of “questionable incidents”.

Following accusations of misconduct onboard the HMCS Whitehorse, the Canadian navy has enforced a near-total ban on alcohol

Three sailors onboard the HMCS Whitehorse were accused of engaging in sexual misconduct, shoplifting and drunkenness while the ship was docked in San Diego earlier this year, reports the Toronto Star.

Following the incident, which led to the ship being recalled to Canada, sailors are now banned from consuming alcohol off-duty except on special occasions at the captain’s discretion, mirroring the rules of the US, UK and New Zealand navies.

“Most misconduct unfortunately involves the misuse of alcohol,” Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, head of the Royal Canadian Navy, told the Toronto Star. “Anytime our ships are at sea, there will not be access to alcohol.”

Norman also revealed the findings of an inquiry launched in the wake of the alleged misconduct, recommending a new code of conduct for members of the navy and communications strategy.

The report also recommended all alcohol be banned while warships are at sea, and suggested that when alcohol is made available at the captain’s discretion, prices should be increased.

“While the vast majority of our officers and sailors understand how to conduct themselves appropriately, I’m confident that they will be better equipped to represent their country, their service and their ships, at home and abroad,” added Norman.