No fences for Peggy’s Cove

The Nova Scotia government has firmly quashed the idea of installing fences on the large, smooth rocks at Peggy's Cove, saying the barriers wouldn't deter thrill-seeking gawkers from getting too close to the ocean.

Municipal Affairs Minister Mark Furey, speaking after a Thursday cabinet meeting, said the government will instead install new warning signs in response to two recent incidents of people falling into the rough surf. As well, Furey said the government is considering installation of a fence around a nearby parking lot that tourists use, saying the fence could guide them toward the warning signs.

“Under no circumstances would we ever consider placing a fence out on the rock portion of Peggy's Cove,” said Furey, a former Mountie. “My experience is that people go over and around those barriers.”

Peggy's Cove is famous for its landscape of stark granite boulders, crashing Atlantic seas and postcard-perfect lighthouse. But the rocks can be slippery and rogue waves have been known to sweep onlookers into the ocean.

Earlier this month, a 26-yearold Ontario man was rescued after falling from the rocks. The Mounties say he was in the ocean for 10 minutes before he was pulled out.