Investment in Halifax Shipyard Will Create New Jobs

Premier's Office

Published Thursday, February 25, 2010

Premier Darrell Dexter announced a $20-million investment in the Halifax Shipyard to help create jobs and grow the economy. The investment is a repayable loan and will be used to modernize and upgrade infrastructure to increase competitiveness. The investments in wharves, cranes, fabrication areas and office upgrades will provide employment for hundreds of Nova Scotia workers and suppliers across the province in the years to come.

Quotes

“This is a sound investment in a successful company. This investment will not only improve infrastructure at the shipyard and create jobs during construction, it will help the shipyard modernize its facility so it will stay competitive and able to bid on more contracts in the future.” Premier Darrell Dexter

“We must continue to embark on opportunities for economic growth. Investments like this bring significant benefits to the province and move us another step closer to our goal of economic sustainability and prosperity.” Economic and Rural Development Minister Percy Paris

“We thank the province for its commitment to a strong future at the Halifax Shipyard and its vote of confidence in the world-class capability of the men and women who work here. Today's news is about investing for the long term and securing this Nova Scotian centre of excellence for made-in-Canada ships.” CEO of Irving Shipbuilding Inc., Jim Irving

“On behalf of the members of Local 1, I want to thank the province for its support of these important improvements. There are many of us whose roots go deep at this shipyard and today's news is the best signal to the next generations of shipyard workers.” President of Local 1 of the CAW Marine Workers Federation, Karl Risser

Quick Facts

• The infrastructure investment represents a significant opportunity for the Halifax Shipyard. Once the project is complete, the shipyard will be the most modern on the eastern seaboard, positioning it for future bids and contracts.
• There are currently 700 workers employed at the Halifax Shipyard and that number could peak at over 1200 this year.
• Last fall, with the support of the province, the Halifax Shipyard secured a contract worth $219 million to build nine mid-shore patrol vessels for the Canadian Coast Guard.
• The government of Canada has committed roughly $40 billion in shipbuilding and ship repair contracts over the next two to three decades. A commitment to purchase Canadian-built vessels is part of the plan.
• The province has a long history of working together with Irving Shipbuilding resulting in major economic benefits for Nova Scotia.
• The Industrial Expansion Fund helps industries with innovation and technology, and contributes to a prosperous and sustainable business climate for Nova Scotia. The fund provides access to capital, helps protect jobs and support businesses to be more competitive and sustainable. It provides financial support, such as loans and guarantees, when many traditional sources are reluctant to do so.

Learn More

• Premier's Office
• Department of Economic and Rural Development
• Halifax Shipyard

Media Contacts

Janet Lynn McNeil

Premier's Office

902-424-5470

Cell: 902-237-4287

E-mail: mcneiljl@gov.ns.ca

Vicki Roberts

Economic and Rural Development

902-424-1728

E-mail: robertvl@gov.ns.ca

Mary Keith

Irving

506-650-8209

E-mail: keith.mary@jdirving.com