Irving Shipbuilding Contract Helps Create Jobs

Premier Darrell Dexter, today, Sept. 2, congratulated Irving Shipbuilding on winning the contract to build nine patrol vessels, which will result in more than 150 jobs for Nova Scotians.

The contract, awarded by the government of Canada, totals $194 million. Preliminary work on the vessels will begin immediately and the first vessel will be ready for service in 2011.

"Irving Shipbuilding is a well-established company with a solid track record," said Premier Dexter. "The contract is helping to build a stronger economy, while employing Nova Scotians who are able to stay and build a life here."

The province is providing a $12.2 million performance guarantee through the Industrial Expansion Fund to Irving Shipbuilding to secure the contract.

The contract will provide 50 Nova Scotian suppliers with the opportunity to bid on goods and services totalling $32 million.

Nova Scotia has a long history of working together with Irving Shipbuilding. All partnerships with Irving have been successful resulting in major economic benefits for Nova Scotia.

"Shipbuilders in Nova Scotia are talented, highly skilled, and committed to building world class products," said Premier Dexter. "I was delighted when I heard the news that Irving Shipbuilding was successful and I want to acknowledge Jim Irving for his commitment to help sustain Nova Scotia's proud tradition of shipbuilding and investing in the skill of the people and the technology of this shipyard."