Canadian senator presses Ottawa on only land disputed between the US and Canada

December 9, 2025

A Canadian senator is challenging the century-old territorial dispute over Machias Seal Island by questioning why Ottawa permits an American tour company to operate there while that company advertises the island as part of Maine. Senator Jim Quinn from New Brunswick has raised concerns about Bold Coast Charter Company's permit and its listing on a Canadian government website, arguing that Canada should more forcefully assert its sovereignty over the uninhabited island that hosts an important puffin colony and Canadian Coast Guard lighthouse. The dispute gains urgency amid broader tensions following President Trump's tariff threats and remarks about Canada becoming America's 51st state.

Who is affected

Senator Jim Quinn (New Brunswick senator raising the sovereignty concerns)
Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans (administrator of the land being questioned)
Bold Coast Charter Company (US-based tour operator with Canadian permit)
SeaWatch Tours (Canadian tour company also operating on the island)
Canadian Coast Guards (rotating crew manning the lighthouse on the island)
Canadian and American fishermen (operating in the disputed waterway)
Canadian and US governments (both claiming sovereignty)

What action is being taken

Senator Quinn is calling on Ottawa to review the permitting of Bold Coast Charter Company
Senator Quinn is questioning why the American company is listed on a government website
Canadian Coast Guards are manning a lighthouse on the island with rotating crews
Bold Coast Charter Company is operating tours to the island
SeaWatch Tours is operating tours to the island

Why it matters

This territorial dispute matters because it represents the only remaining land dispute between Canada and the United States, making it symbolically significant for national sovereignty. The issue has gained heightened importance due to current geopolitical tensions, including President Trump's tariff threats and controversial comments about Canada becoming the "51st state," which Senator Quinn views as justification for Canada to assert firmer control over contested border areas. The dispute also has practical economic implications, as both nations share fishing rights in the waterway and the US has accused Canada of unfair trade practices in the local lobster fishery.

What's next

Senate order papers containing Senator Quinn's questions to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans are scheduled to be discussed on Tuesday.

Read full article from source: BBC