Premier Congratulates Irving, Endorses Shipbuilding Bid
NOTE: A social media version of this release with hi-res downloadable photos, video and audio clips is available at http://gov.ns.ca/news/smr/2011-07-21-Shipbuilding-Bid/default.asp
Nova Scotia is built to build and Irving Shipbuilding is ready to build Canada's fleet.
Premier Darrell Dexter congratulated Irving Shipbuilding today, July 21, as the company submitted its official bid for the $30 billion National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy.
"Irving Shipbuilding has demonstrated throughout the bid process that it has the experience and ability to build Canada's ships. Our bid is Canada's bid," said Premier Dexter. "The federal government needs a dependable, capable partner in this project, and Irving is it. This bid submission has my complete support, on behalf of all Nova Scotians."
The bid received unanimous support from all three parties in the legislature. More than 5,000 people across Canada have already shown their support for Nova Scotia's bid online, from Vancouver B.C., to Iqaluit, Fort McMurray, to Corner Brook.
"I want to thank the leaders and organizations within the Ships Start Here partnership for their united support in demonstrating to the entire country that there simply is no better place in Canada to build ships than in Nova Scotia," said Premier Dexter.
Irving has submitted a clear plan to build the fleet, one that includes a commitment from the Nova Scotia Community College to ensure there is a trained, qualified workforce. The province has also committed to invest in infrastructure and training, details of which will be announced should Irving win one of the two available contracts.
"Our bid would not have been possible without the incredible support and collaboration with the Province of Nova Scotia, the Canadian Auto Workers-Marine Workers Federation Local 1, the numerous provincial and regional business community organizations and members, as well as many of our suppliers and strategic partners," said Jim Irving, CEO, Irving Shipbuilding.
"Irving Shipbuilding looks forward to the continuation and completion of the competitive process. The men and women of Irving Shipbuilding stand ready for Canada today."
A successful bid to build the combat vessels could mean an additional 11,500 jobs for Nova Scotians. Shipbuilding in Nova Scotia would drive benefits to all parts of Canada – an advantage unique to Nova Scotia's bid. If Nova Scotia is selected, the Canadian economy is expected to grow by $1.5 billion, and 4,500 jobs will be created outside of Nova Scotia.
"A win would mean an entirely new generation of shipbuilders in Nova Scotia, a revitalized economy for the province, and important spin-offs across the country," said Premier Dexter.
Halifax Shipyard has been in operation since 1889. Irving Shipbuilding has built tugboats and offshore supply vessels for clients at home and around the world, as well as 80 per cent of Canada's current surface combatant fleet.
To learn how to show support, and to find out more about shipbuilding in Nova Scotia, visit www.ShipsStartHere.ca