Gabarus Lighthouse can't get $50K repair grant without federal licence

The society that manages the 125-year-old Gabarus Lighthouse in Cape Breton says it can't repair and move the structure untilthe federal governmentgrants a licence and the lighthouse may not have time for that.

The Gabarus Lightkeepers Society recently won $50,000 through a national crowdfunding campaign called This Lighthouse Matters. But members say not having a licence from Fisheries and Oceans Canada prevents them from receiving the money.

"The erosion around the lighthouse is endangering its existence," said Janet McGillen, a society member.

"We can't find an insurance company yet that will insure us. Without the insurance we can't get the licence. Without the licence we can't get the insurance."

The back and forth is eating away at time the society says it doesn't have. Recent heavy rains have also expedited the erosion.

"The lighthouse appears to be leaning already somewhat towards the water, which makes it more perilous," said Tim Menk, another society member.

"The potential loss of this lighthouse would affect the community psychologically. But it would also affect the sailors and the mariners that come and go from this port."