The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans today announced funding of up to $488M to procure 18-21 new vessels for the Coast Guard Fleet.
Minister MacKay made the announcement during the 2013 Mari-Tech Conference, an annual event providing marine engineers and those in the marine industrial community with opportunities to develop their knowledge, stay current with industry development, and network with key industry stakeholders.
The construction of these vessels will be available for competitive bids by Canadian shipyards not selected under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy and will provide jobs for small and medium enterprises and shipyards across Canada.
“Our Government has made it a priority to equip the men and women of the Coast Guard with the vessels they need to do their important work,” said Minister Ashfield. “Renewing the fleet will enable the Coast Guard to continue serving Canadians from coast to coast to coast for future generations.”
“In doing so, we are revitalizing Canada’s shipbuilding industry and stimulating jobs and growth in communities right across our country,” said Minister MacKay
Of the 18-21 vessels, the Coast Guard will procure:
Vessels will be constructed over the next seven years and will replace existing vessels of the Coast Guard fleet and will be stationed across Canada based on operational need.
This investment is in addition to the larger vessels to be constructed at Vancouver Shipyards, the vessel life extensions and mid-life modernizations for 16 vessels and 2 hovercraft and up to 24 new helicopters.
Since 2009, the Government of Canada has delivered over 100 vessels to the Coast Guard, including: four Hero-class Mid-Shore Patrol Vessels ( CCGS Private Robertson V.C. , CCGS Caporal Kaeble V.C. , CCGS Corporal Teather C.V, and the CCGS Constable Carrière) ; the hovercraft CCGS Mamilossa ; five Search and Rescue Lifeboats; two Specialty Vessels; three Near-Shore Fishery Research Vessels; 30 environmental barges; and 60 small craft.
[mappress] Press Release, June 26, 2013; Image: Government of Canada