The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans announced today that Robert Allan Ltd. of Vancouver, British Columbia will design the Canadian Coast Guard’s three new inshore science vessels. The $650,000 contract was awarded as part of the Government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
“I am pleased to see this important project moving forward,” said Minister Shea. “These new vessels will give our researchers and scientists the tools they need to conduct critical research in our inshore waters, while stimulating the local economy during these uncertain times.”
The acquisition of the three new inshore science vessels is expected to be completed by March 2011. Two 18 metre inshore science vessels will be home ported in Mont-Joli, Québec and in Shippagan, New Brunswick and the third science vessel, which will be 24 metres in length, will be home ported in St. Andrew’s, New Brunswick.
In addition to fulfilling its primary commitment to marine safety and environmental response, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) plays an indispensable role in fulfilling the mandate of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Hydrographic, oceanographic, and scientific research are performed aboard vessel platforms. CCG’s ability to host scientists makes it all possible.
As part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada is investing $175 million in the CCG to procure 68 new small vessels and 30 environmental barges, and to undertake major repair work on 40 of its aging large vessels
