Each chapter describes the dynamics or tensions within a specific marine sector or policy community. Collectively, the contributors raise critical questions about the process, structure, and function of Canadian oceans policy, covering topics such as the Atlantic fishery, conservation, ocean science and technology, shipping, aboriginal rights, defence, and pollution. The book conveys a cautiously optimistic message: although Canada does not yet have a comprehensive oceans policy, there is growing evidence that the problem, policy, and political streams are converging. Canada must be ready to respond to this policy opportunity with clear objectives and appropriate program elements that mediate between competing interests and conflicting values. Those who construct Canada's oceans policy must be capable of calculating risks and challenging the status quo to create a workable, sustainable framework for oceans governance in our increasingly complex world. The contributors to this collection are Robert Boardman, Darlene Boyle, Mark Butler, Scott F. Coffen, Raymond P. Côté, Graham Day, Lloyd M. Dickie, Gaye Drescher, Wade Elliot, Terry Fenge, Julia Gardner, Robert Gorham, Cynthia Lamson, Josée M. Parent, Randall Prime, Barbara Riley, Timothy A. Smith, John Somers, and Jeffrey L.C. Wright.

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"Although oceans policy making in Canada has been highly politicized, reactive, and ad hoc, Lamson takes the optimistic line that the 'streams' of policy development are reaching a confluence ... The main objective of this book is to urge the government of Canada to move more boldly in formulating an umbrella oceans policy." Clyde Sanger, North-South Institute. "There is a wealth of information in this book. Each of the separate chapters is interesting and informative; each tells a good story ... The editor has a broad conception of the ambit of oceans issues and oceans policy which is not limited to traditional areas such as shipping and navigation, fishing and the protection of the marine environment." D.M. McRae, Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa.

"Although oceans policy making in Canada has been highly politicized, reactive, and ad hoc, Lamson takes the optimistic line that the 'streams' of policy development are reaching a confluence ... The main objective of this book is to urge the government of Canada to move more boldly in formulating an umbrella oceans policy." Clyde Sanger, North-South Institute.
"There is a wealth of information in this book. Each of the separate chapters is interesting and informative; each tells a good story ... The editor has a broad conception of the ambit of oceans issues and oceans policy which is not limited to traditional areas such as shipping and navigation, fishing and the protection of the marine environment." D.M. McRae, Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa.