New Bluenose II Approach Established
TOURISM, CULTURE AND HERITAGE--New Bluenose II Approach Established
Talks between the Nova Scotia Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage and the Bluenose II Preservation Trust Society have resulted in important and positive steps toward resolving difficult intellectual property issues surrounding Bluenose II.
The province and the Trust have agreed to begin immediately to establish a new organization accountable to the people of Nova Scotia. The new organization will include representation from the province and will oversee responsibilities for the ship.
A transition team, to be named early in the new year, will establish criteria for the operation and management of Bluenose II, including discussions around the use of its name and image. The Trust will transfer all of its assets to the new organization, which will be financially accountable to the people of Nova Scotia.
"There is no question that the province and Trust share a solid commitment to Nova Scotia's sailing ambassador, Bluenose II, and we have always agreed that she deserves the very best of management and preservation," stated Tourism, Culture and Heritage Minister Rodney MacDonald.
"Importantly, we have come to an agreement that will bring a co- operative approach to the management of the Bluenose II name and image, and all matters that concern her -- one that everyone involved in these discussions welcomes," the minister added.
"The new organization will be accountable to the people of Nova Scotia and will file annual reports with the House of Assembly, including fully audited financial statements," stated Senator Wilfred Moore, who will continue as volunteer chair of the new organization's board.
The Trust has agreed to abandon its lawsuit in the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia and together with the province will undertake steps to terminate proceedings in the Federal Court. There is clear agreement there will be no further attempts to enforce rights around the name and image of the ship without permission.