For several years, channel 9 was used in some areas to establish
communications. The hope
was that this would leave 16 free for emergencies. The experiment was
abandoned because
it reduced the number of vessels monitoring Channel 16.

I see. This past season I heard the CG asking to keep 16 cleared at all times,
generally on weekends. No emergency situation was taking place. I heard this
message on numerous occasions, read live.

RB