News
Irving Shipbuilding Moves Forward with Detailed AOPS Design, Preparing for Construction in 2015
Halifax, NS, March 7, 2013: Irving Shipbuilding welcomed the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, and the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence to Halifax Shipyard today to mark the start of the Definition (Design) phase of work for the first set of new naval combat vessels for Canada, the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS).
Under the Definition Contract Irving Shipbuilding will refine and complete the AOPS vessel design to the high degree of detail for Canada and for those who will cut steel, assemble, complete and test the ships, as well as complete various phases of design review, analysis and testing, plan how to integrate all of the complex systems and equipment on the ship, and do detailed cost estimates for the build phase of the project; all tasks required in order to be ready to start the build of the AOPS vessels in 2015 and to meet Canada’s specifications.
“Our focus over the next 30 months is on producing a detailed ship design that delivers best value to Canada, while ensuring we meet the government’s 2015 deadline to cut steel for the first ship – this is vital to our customer, our current workforce and their families,” said Ross Langley, Vice Chairman of Irving Shipbuilding.
The Definition Contract will be managed by a team of highly-skilled, well paid professional positions located in Halifax, developing combat shipbuilding design and planning capacity and experience in Nova Scotia. This team will manage the many specialist subcontractors and material suppliers, as well as the integration of the various complex systems that make up each ship. Recruitment for this team of engineers, supply chain leaders, program managers and technical specialists has been underway for some time now. It is anticipated this team will reach a peak of 90 professionals in the Spring of 2014.
Completion of a test production module to verify design, engineering and systems integration plans will allow for more efficient production of the ships and employ an estimated 110 additional production workers, bringing the Irving Shipbuilding AOPS team to 200. Eighty percent of the high-value jobs associated with the AOPS design contract will be in Canada (including Tier 1 suppliers).
As Canada’s Prime Contractor for the AOPS project, Irving Shipbuilding has selected a team of exceptional, experienced subcontractors to fulfill the mandate of the design phase including Lockheed Martin Canada as Command and Surveillance Systems Integrator, GE Canada as Integrated Propulsion System Integrator, Lloyd’s Register Group as Classification Society, Odense Maritime Technology (OMT) as Marine Engineering and Naval Architecture Provider, and Fleetway Inc. as Integrated Logistics Support Provider. Together these companies employ almost 8,000 people across Canada, and an estimated 75 professionals from these suppliers will be dedicated to the AOPS project.
The signing of the AOPS Definition Contract allows contracts to be finalized with these individual organizations and work to begin on the competition and selection of the subsequent subcontractors and businesses required to fulfill the mandate of the AOPS design phase.
“Together with our experienced partners, we are committed to maximizing opportunities and benefits for Canadians and Nova Scotians through additional subcontracting, employment and the generation of investment and benefits within the broader marine industry,” said Langley. “We will be looking for qualified Canadian suppliers of goods and services that deliver best value to Canada while meeting the schedule established by the customer. Every dollar we must spend outside of our country will be offset, dollar for dollar, with equal value inside Canadian borders.”
Canada’s Industrial and Regional Benefit (IRB) Policy ensures that Irving Shipbuilding will deliver business activities in Canada at 100% of the value of the contract. IRB’s can occur inside and outside the shipbuilding sector, benefitting innovation, research and business development here in Nova Scotia and across Canada.
Long term yard infrastructure investments - estimated to be about $300 million - are already underway and are designed to ensure Halifax Shipyard is ready to undertake production when cut steel is scheduled for the AOPS vessels in 2015, as well as the larger combatant ship contract currently scheduled to begin production in 2020. The build phase for each of these projects is where the bulk of the direct employment generation is anticipated. Infrastructure plans to efficiently meet the needs of the national shipbuilding program have been reviewed by 3rd party international experts First Marine International (FMI).
“We expect to be contracting key elements of the site upgrade within the next 3-6 weeks,” said Langley. “This is a project that will result in significant work for local contractors.”
“Our proven history of successfully building Canada’s frigates, Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels, and Mid-Shore Patrol Vessels on time and within budget, combined with the combatant vessel projects in the shipyard today and now AOPS, have and continue to demonstrate our capability as the most qualified Prime Contractor of the larger CSC ships. We recognize our responsibility along this 30-year program to generate opportunities for shipbuilding trades, suppliers, marine professionals and knowledge building partners in Nova Scotia and across Canada,” concluded Langley. “We are determined to deliver on that commitment.”
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Read the Government of Canada's [press release].
Contact:
Mary Keith / J.D. Irving Limited / (506) 632-5122 / (506) 650-8209 (cell) / keith.mary@jdirving.com
Deborah Page / Irving Shipbuilding / (902) 484-4552 / (902) 499-7975 (cell) / page.deborah@irvingshipbuilding.com
Canadian Government Supports Atlantis Resources Corporation Tidal Energy Project
Halifax, NS, February 15, 2013: Atlantis Resources Corporation, a world-leading marine energy company, has been awarded a $5 million grant by the Canadian Government’s Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) fund towards a 1+ megawatt tidal energy project in the Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia.
The company will work together with Lockheed Martin and Irving Shipbuilding to customize, build, deploy and monitor their 1+ megawatt turbine at the Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy test site in the Bay of Fundy.
The project will marry Atlantis’ international experience in building and operating commercial scale tidal turbines, with local expertise Lockheed Martin Canada and Irving Shipbuilding.
"I am delighted that the Canadian Government has chosen to back this major project for the Canadian marine industry," said Atlantis CEO, Tim Cornelius. "Together, with our partners Lockheed Martin and Irving Shipbuilding we can harness the powerful tidal resource in the Bay of Fundy to produce safe, clean, renewable energy for Nova Scotia and through that process develop the expertise, experience and infrastructure to be a resource for tidal energy projects across North America."
“Our Government is doing its part to encourage innovation and the next wave of clean technologies to help protect our environment and create high-quality jobs,” said the Honourable Joe Oliver, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources. “Investment in projects such as these demonstrates our leadership in driving a vibrant clean technology industry in Canada.”
Lockheed Martin, which has 225 full time employees in Nova Scotia, will be responsible for engineering design elements, production and procurement of major turbine components, and systems integration and testing.
Irving Shipbuilding, will oversee elements of fabrication and assembly of the device in conjunction with other local suppliers at its Woodside Industries facility. It is anticipated that skilled trades including burners, steel fitters, iron workers and welders will be required for the project once production begins.
"Canada is quickly becoming a leader in alternative energy development, and Lockheed Martin is proud to be working with top technology companies such as Atlantis to deliver affordable, reliable and responsible power generation to the region" said Rosemary Chapdelaine, president of Lockheed Martin Canada.
“SDTC is proud to add this project to its portfolio, now valued at more than $2 billion. When purchased and used by Canadian industry, the clean technologies developed by portfolio companies will enable a variety of sectors to increase their share of global markets,” said Dr. Vicky Sharpe, President and CEO of SDTC. “As Canada works to diversify its export markets, working with new trading partners in emerging countries, these innovative technologies will help make Canadian natural resources and products more globally attractive and competitive.”
“We’re pleased to see this significant Tidal Energy Project take an important step forward with today’s announcement of backing by the Canadian Government,” said Ross Langley, Vice-Chair of Irving Shipbuilding. “We look forward to putting the exceptional skills of the men and women of Irving Shipbuilding to work, contributing to clean, renewable energy for Nova Scotians.”
Deployment of the Atlantis turbine is planned for summer 2015.
Atlantis Resources Corporation is an international developer of tidal current turbines with offices in United Kingdom, Singapore and Australia. Atlantis is an end-to-end marine power project company offering tidal turbine technologies and resource assessment services to utilities and power companies worldwide.
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Media Contact:
Oliver Williams
Atlantis Resources Corporation
+ 44-407-269-7241
E-mail: olly.williams@fd.com
Irving Shipbuilding Confirms New Commercial Projects in Shelburne and Halifax
Halifax, NS, December 3, 2012: Irving Shipbuilding confirmed two new contracts for Shelburne Ship Repair, as well as an upcoming job for the Halifax Shipyard’s Nova Dock today; contracts that will require a total of approximately 90 hourly employees.
CFAV Firebird, a DND firefighting tug, is scheduled to arrive at Shelburne Ship Repair Dec. 10 for a 10-week project to blast, paint and perform propulsion repairs. The project is projected to require approximately 25 employees. CFAV Firebird is one of two Fire-class Fireboats operated by the Canadian Forces Maritime Command (Canadian Navy), which can also double as Yard Tractor Tugs.
And the Canadian Coast Guard research vessel CCG Alfred Needler is expected to arrive at Shelburne Ship Repair on Dec. 12 for five weeks of general repairs, blasting, painting, and propulsion system inspections. This project is expected to require approximately 40 employees.
“The excellent reputation of our skilled ship repair specialists at Shelburne Ship Repair has helped to secure these two contracts for the yard,” said Ross Langley, Vice Chairman, Irving Shipbuilding. “The $16 million refurbishment of the yard, shared by Irving Shipbuilding and the Province of Nova Scotia, was a solid investment that has enabled the yard to secure a steady stream of clients, both new and repeat, since the grand re-opening in September 2011.”
Sixteen of the Shelburne Ship Repair employees on temporary layoff were recalled today (December 3) to help in preparations for the upcoming projects, and the yard expects to continue to recall dozens of workers over the next several weeks.
At Halifax Shipyard, the MV Atlantic Vision ferry left the Nova Dock on Sunday, Dec. 2, resulting in a temporary layoff of 21 employees. Due the week of Dec. 6 into the Nova Dock at Halifax Shipyard is HMCS Toronto, a DND Halifax-Class Frigate, for approximately 10 days of preparations for her deployment overseas in January 2013, requiring approximately 24 hourly workers. HMCS Toronto was built in Saint John Shipbuilding and was commissioned on July 29, 1993.
“We’re continuing to aggressively pursue additional commercial and repair projects for Shelburne Ship Repair and our facilities at Halifax Shipyard,” added Langley, “and we hope to be in a position to confirm the details regarding new contracts in the very near future .”
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Contact:
Mary Keith / J.D. Irving Limited / (506) 632-5122 / (506) 650-8209(cell) / keith.mary@jdirving.com
Deborah Page / Irving Shipbuilding / (902) 484-4552 / (902) 499-7975(cell) / page.deborah@irvingshipbuilding.com
CAW Local 1 Ratifies New Collective Agreement with Irving Shipbuilding
Halifax, NS, November 28, 2012: Today members of CAW/Marine Workers Federation Local 1 voted 69% in favour of ratifying a new 6-year collective agreement with Irving Shipbuilding. The agreement covers approximately 1000 workers at Halifax Shipyard, skilled shipbuilders who will be key in the construction of the new naval combat fleet for Canada in the coming years.
“Our negotiating committee worked very hard to get a good deal for our members, one that increased benefits for workers and improves our ability to attract skilled trades to Halifax Shipyard to build new ships for Canada,” said Karl Risser, President, CAW Local 1. “Our campaign to build ships in Canada, by Canadian workers, for Canada has been going on for years. The competitive wage rates in this new agreement will help us to attract and retain skilled trades here in Nova Scotia.”
“We’re pleased with the results of today’s ratification vote,” said Ross Langley, Vice Chairman, Irving Shipbuilding. “This new collective agreement recognizes the extensive skills and experience of the men and women of Halifax Shipyard while providing the kind of stability that will allow us to focus as a team on completing our current projects as well as preparing for the naval programs to come.”
Workers at Halifax Shipyard are currently constructing nine Hero Class Mid-shore Patrol Vessels for the Canadian Coast Guard, with two ships complete and delivered and six currently under construction; the program is due for completion in 2014. Also underway are mid-life refits of seven Halifax-class Frigates for the Canadian Navy, a program expected to wrap up in 2017. Current DND estimates see the first set of vessels under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy, the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships, entering into production stage in 2015.
“Our membership and their experience was one of the leading reasons Irving Shipbuilding successfully landed the bid to build the Navy’s new combat fleet.,” added Karl Risser.
“This new agreement today allows us to move forward as a team to deliver quality vessels and best value to Canada,” said Ross Langley.
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Contact:
Mary Keith / J.D. Irving Limited / (506) 632-5122 / (506) 650-8209 (cell) / keith.mary@jdirving.com
Deborah Page / Irving Shipbuilding / (902) 484-4552 / (902) 499-7975 (cell) / page.deborah@irvingshipbuilding.com
Shipbuilding Update
Oct. 19, 2012: It is a year since Irving Shipbuilding earned the right to negotiate the contracts to build the new combat vessel fleet for the Royal Canadian Navy. It was a great day for everyone on the Irving Shipbuilding team, in Nova Scotia, throughout the region, and indeed across Canada.
We believe it’s important to keep you up-to-date on both our progress and our current activities. This update is to provide an overview of where we are today – one year into an exciting and promising 30-year process. Click here for link to newsletter...
Impact on Nova Scotia Economy - Economic Impact Report July 2012
Aug. 1, 2012: Did you know that Irving Shipbuilding operations boosted Nova Scotia’s real GDP by an estimated $174 million in 2011? Did you know that as a result of Irving Shipbuilding direct and indirect employment, an estimated $113 million was paid in employment income to Nova Scotians in 2011.
Read the entire report on Economic Impact of J.D. Irving, Limited Shipbuilding Operations in 2011 across Nova Scotia, July 2012.
Irving Shipbuilding Ranked # 1 Defence Company in Canada for 2012
May 3, 2012: Canada's leading defence and military magazine, Canadian Defence Review, has released its annual survey and ranking of defence companies in Canada.
Irving Shipbuilding, a key supplier to the Royal Canadian Navy, and one of Canada’s most important shipbuilding firms, has been ranked Canada’s # 1 Defence Company for 2012 in the CDR survey.
This is the eighth year for the CDR survey of Canada’s Top Defence Companies and in announcing this year’s rankings, CDR Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, Peter Kitchen commented, “Irving Shipbuilding is a survivor of the Boom & Bust era in Canadian shipbuilding and it is to be commended for its tenacity in sticking with a plan to have Halifax Shipyard become one of the Royal Canadian Navy’s most important contractors.”
The company’s patience finally paid off last year when Irving Shipbuilding was awarded the combatant portion of the NSPS program, valued at $25 billion, one of the biggest defence contracts in Canadian history.
“Irving Shipbuilding is the very embodiment of the type of company that CDR seeks to recognize in its annual Top 50 Rankings as it is not only a critical supplier to Canada’s military but also an extremely important player in the local and regional economies, employing hundreds of skilled workers directly and thousands more indirectly.”, commented CDR’s Kitchen.
“We are honoured to be named Canada’s Top Defence Company by this country’s leading defence and military journal, Canadian Defence Review (CDR),” said Jim Irving, CEO of Irving Shipbuilding Inc.
He added, “Irving Shipbuilding is one among other great companies on this list, which represents a growing, successful aerospace and defence industry across Canada. We thank the men and women of Irving Shipbuilding for their commitment and experience, we would not be where we are today without each one of them.”
In CDR’s Top 50 Defence Companies Rankings for 2012, there were seven new companies in the survey showing that the Top 50 Survey is not just an exercise in re-shuffling the deck of usual defence industry players. “It is a testament to the strength of the defence industry in Canada that we had difficulty in listing all the defence companies that we would have liked to.” said CDR’s Kitchen.
An evaluation panel consisting of CDR editorial staff and independent advisors ranked the companies based on factors such as economic impact, innovation, contribution to the nation's security, and support of Canada’s military.
The complete Top 50 Defence Companies ranking can be found on the CDR website: www.CanadianDefenceReview.com
For further information,
Dianne Osadchuk, Telephone: (647) 977-7575
Follow Canadian Defence Review on:
RSS: http://www.canadiandefencereview.com/rss.php
Twitter: http://twitter.com/cdrmagazine
Halifax, NS, March 30, 2012: Nova Scotia committed up to $304 million in loans as part of Irving Shipbuilding's successful bid for the $25 billion federal combat vessel shipbuilding program, Premier Darrell Dexter revealed today, March 30.
It is the single largest investment in jobs and growing the economy in Nova Scotia's history - to strengthen the competitiveness of Irving Shipbuilding's bid to build Canada's next fleet of combat ships. It represents six per cent of the tax revenue the province expects to receive in return.
"I, the entire province, and indeed people from across Canada, have stood behind Irving's bid from day one, knowing that the best ships in the world start right here," said Premier Dexter. "This is the single most important opportunity Nova Scotia has ever seen to create jobs and propel our economy into the future. This is a vital project for Nova Scotia and for Canada."
To strengthen Irving's bid, the province committed to a financial assistance package that includes a forgiveable capital loan worth up to $260 million, and a repayable marine industry loan worth $44 million for human resource development, technology and industrial development. The province also committed to loan guarantees, if needed, as the contracts are finalized.
The provincial investment was crafted to support key competitive features that would help put the Irving bid in front. They include providing access to working capital, modernizing the yard, and ensuring that beyond the cost of the ships, there would be no additional cost to the federal government.
"We appreciate the vision shown by the province and Premier Dexter in recognizing the significant impact the new federal shipbuilding contracts will have in Nova Scotia," said Jim Irving, CEO of Irving Shipbuilding. "The province has consistently shown its commitment to the skilled men and women at Irving Shipbuilding.
"During the past 15 years, Nova Scotia's confidence in our capabilities made us a contender, earning the highest score and the right to build Canada's next generation of combat vessels. We would not have won without Nova Scotia's support. Today we partner to build quality ships, a growing workforce and a lasting centre of excellence that will provide a substantial return on the province's support."
While the province invested up to $304 million in the bid, the impact of the shipbuilding work is estimated to result in $2.8 billion in additional revenue to the province over the course of the next 19 years.
Activity flowing from the shipbuilding bid provides the province a tremendous opportunity to create jobs and grow the economy for the future, in particular through: regional and national cooperation; workforce training and development; supply chain development; innovation and excellence; and international investment and partnerships.
As part of the agreement, Irving will contribute $250,000 per year, over the next 30 years, to support the Irving Shipbuilding Centre of Excellence at the Nova Scotia Community College. The centre will provide opportunities for Nova Scotians to learn about career options in the shipbuilding industry and about the training involved in becoming the best shipbuilders in the world.
The province will also work with Irving to develop an early apprenticeship program and a ten-year workforce plan to ensure Nova Scotians are aware of future opportunities, and so our education and training institutions can plan and deliver relevant training.
Irving will continue to work with the Ships Start Here partnership to participate in supply chain development as work continues on a strategy to help companies develop skills and certifications to become a supplier or subcontractor.
"Nova Scotia won these contracts fair and square, but let me be clear, the opportunities in front of us are not entitlements. To achieve the greatest growth and transformation of our economy, we will have to work together and work hard. If we don't, others surely will," said Premier Dexter.
The contracts, estimated at $25 billion, will help the province turn a corner on 20 years of slow economic growth in Atlantic Canada. It will mean an additional 11,500 jobs for Nova Scotians and will increase the province's GDP by almost $900 million during peak production years. The Canadian economy is expected to grow by $1.5 billion, and 4,500 jobs will be created outside of Nova Scotia.
Irving Shipbuilding Online Supplier Registry Goes Live
Halifax, NS, January 18, 2012: On January 17th Irving Shipbuilding officially launched its Online Supplier Registry, as a part of its extensive preparation for upcoming vessel construction programs associated with the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS). “Although we are only 90 days into a 30-year process, we felt it was crucial to capture the interest expressed by many local, national and global companies in becoming part of the Irving Shipbuilding supply chain,” said Steve Durrell, President, Irving Shipbuilding.
The registry database, located at www.irvingshipbuilding.com, is designed to gather and categorize information on interested potential suppliers, and assist in consistent communications regarding NSPS-related contracts and projects. Since the Oct. 19th announcement of the successful NSPS shipyards, Irving Shipbuilding has received more than 550 inquiries from suppliers interested in knowing more about upcoming opportunities to provide goods and services.
“We’re currently working on laying important groundwork with the federal government, including the recently announced agreement in principle as well as negotiating the contract for the first set of vessels,” said Steve Durrell, President, Irving Shipbuilding. “We hope to be in a position to begin production on the first set of vessels in late 2013. No supplier selection related to NSPS programs has taken place as yet. We will only be in a position to begin supplier selection when we finalize those agreements and receive further detail on vessel designs and specifications.”
The registry is searchable and will be used by Irving Shipbuilding supply chain professionals to identify suppliers to be invited to participate in future ISI-led supplier development sessions; to identify relevant suppliers to receive Requests for Interest or Requests for Proposal related to specific project requirements; and to help direct further relevant updates and information to suppliers. Both potential and current suppliers are encouraged to register. Registering on the system does not guarantee suppliers will be successful in obtaining work for the upcoming vessel construction projects.
Irving Shipbuilding’s Online Supplier Registry will also feature helpful links, including a link to ACOA for further information and background on the federal government’s Industrial Regional Benefits programs. In addition, for assistance in Controlled Goods, Security Screening, Quality Assurance, Safety and Continuous Improvement, links to participating audit firms have been provided.
Irving Shipbuilding Celebrates Conclusion of Agreement in Principle with Government of Canada to Build Navy Combat Vessels
Halifax, NS, January 12, 2012: Today Irving Shipbuilding welcomed the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Defence for Canada, as well as senior representatives of the Royal Canadian Navy, to their Halifax Shipyard facility to mark the successful conclusion of an agreement in principle to build Canada’s combat vessels under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS).
“The agreement in principle reached today with Irving Shipbuilding Inc. is a milestone of our Government’s National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy – a strategy that will mean jobs and economic growth for the country, stability for the industry, and vital equipment for our men and women in uniform,” said Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
Production on four of nine Hero-Class Mid-Shore Patrol Vessels for the Canadian Coast Guard paused momentarily as the announcement was made in the shipyard’s fabrication hall, with four vessels in various stages of production acting as the backdrop.
“Today we celebrate the first of many milestones in realizing the federal government’s commitment to build ships here at home. We thank Prime Minister Harper for delivering the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy and selecting the successful yards through a rigorous merit based process,” said Jim Irving, CEO of Irving Shipbuilding. “We also want to thank Minister MacKay who has been a steadfast champion of the people at this yard and a Build in Canada approach for federal vessels.”
“To the Province, Premier Dexter and the community - we appreciate the unwavering support. You’ve been with us every step of the way! Our management team and workers made it happen, rightfully earning the work. These new contracts are the best tribute to their skill and dedication. Canada was determined to find the best shipbuilders and we are proud to be the team that will deliver best value and quality to the men and women who serve,” Irving said.
Steve Durrell, President Irving Shipbuilding said, “We are so fortunate that our owners, the Irving family, saw the potential of our workers, our experience and our facilities and chose to invest heavily in infrastructure, technology and people since acquiring Halifax Shipyard in 1994. That investment totals about $90 million over the past five years alone. One of the most important demonstrations of that commitment was their choice to build their own vessels right here at Irving Shipbuilding when others chose to build offshore. That ability to continue to build experience and maintain skills is, we believe, a big reason we were selected to build the next generation Navy fleet.”
Irving Shipbuilding Stands Ready to Build Canada’s Next Generation Federal Combat Fleet
Halifax, NS, Oct 19, 2011: Today Irving Shipbuilding celebrated its successful selection to negotiate the right to build Canada’s future combat fleet under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS). The company gathered late in the day to recognize its employees, community and government partners, and Canadians from coast to coast to coast for the outstanding support of Nova Scotia as a Canadian shipbuilding Centre of Excellence.
“This is tremendous news! On behalf of the men and women of Irving Shipbuilding, we are honoured to be chosen by Canada to build the Navy’s new combat vessel fleet for those who serve and we look forward to successful negotiations in the coming months,” said Jim Irving, CEO, Irving Shipbuilding. “We’d like to assure the Government of Canada, and all Canadians, that we will continue to devote our efforts to building quality vessels for our men and women in uniform and delivering best value to Canadians for this important investment, one that will provide economic benefits across Canada.”
The company recognized the federal government for its leadership and vision in establishing the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy in June, 2010. This Strategy has now resulted in the creation of two centres of excellence for the construction of large vessels to deliver sustained value, productivity and skilled employment to Canada. This long term commitment to shipbuilding by the federal government will avoid the boom/bust cycles seen in the past and will ensure sustained investments in the industry.
“Our employees are the best shipbuilders in Canada, and to them we’d like to extend our sincere gratitude for their support throughout this process,” said Steve Durrell, President, Irving Shipbuilding. “They continue to put their expertise and skills to work every day for our current customers, and we know they’ll look for every opportunity to make each vessel we construct even better than the last.”
The company, which has built over 80% of Canada’s current surface combat fleet and is presently working on refitting seven Halifax-class frigates for the Navy and building nine HERO Class Patrol Vessels for the Canadian Coast Guard, has invested $90 million over the past five years to be ready for its newest assignment.
“We’re fortunate to have an owner in the Irving family that saw the potential of our workers, our experience and our facilities and chose to invest heavily in infrastructure, technology and people since acquiring Halifax Shipyard in 1994,” added Durrell. “One of the most important ways in which they did that was by choosing to build their own vessels right here at Irving Shipbuilding.”
The year-long NSPS bid process took a great deal of human, financial and intellectual capital. It was also a time when the employees of Irving Shipbuilding learned how much support they, their families, and the entire industry have among the people of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Atlantic Canada and the entire nation.
“To every Nova Scotian and Canadian who put up a lawn sign, put a pin on the electronic map or sent us words of encouragement, we can’t thank you enough — the workers of Irving Shipbuilding are incredibly touched by your interest and your support,” said Jim Irving. “And to Nova Scotia and every member of the Ships Start Here partnership, you have made this a true community effort and demonstrated the power of a community with confidence, pride and a clear objective – thank you for your belief and your support.”
Negotiation of contracts with the Federal Government will take place over the next number of months, after which Irving Shipbuilding anticipates specific program details would be released in a joint communiqué between Canada and the shipyard.
“It’s a great day for shipbuilding in Canada. We’re proud to be a part of this heritage and we understand our responsibility in building this industry and the next generation of shipbuilders into the future” said Jim Irving. “Irving Shipbuilding is privileged to be poised to negotiate the combat vessel contracts, commencing with the Arctic Offshore Patrol Vessels, and looks forward to delivering Canada’s next generation combat vessel fleet to those who serve.”
PREMIER'S OFFICE--Shelburne Shipyard Re-Opens
Nova Scotia, September 13, 2011: Shelburne is back in ship shape, busy repairing ships again, thanks to the province's $8.8-million investment in Irving Shipbuilding's Shelburne Ship Repair.
"Shipbuilding is in our blood in Nova Scotia. The province believes in the people of Shelburne and the future of shipbuilding in Nova Scotia," said Premier Darrell Dexter. "This investment is Nova Scotia's jobsHere plan in action."
Irving Shipbuilding invested $16.6 million in the upgrades, to modernize the cradle and marine railway, as well as the wharf. The restoration, completed in August, will strengthen the economy and sustain employment for local residents in the long term. Irving's purchase of the yard was a condition of the province's investment.
"A viable shipyard is significant to the economy of Shelburne and its surrounding communities," said Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau. "This means good jobs in a vibrant sector for years to come."
Most of the upgrades were completed by Shelburne Ship Repair employees. There are currently 38 employees in the yard with repair work underway and bids for more work submitted.
"The investment to modernize and upgrade Shelburne Ship Repair is a testament to the opportunity we see in the skills and experience of the men and women who work at this facility," said Jim Irving, CEO of Irving Shipbuilding. "There is a solid market for repair work and we have the skilled workers to do those jobs, but we needed a facility that could accommodate larger vessels. We want to thank Premier Dexter and the province of Nova Scotia for seeing that potential, too, and supporting us in this major refurbishment."
The upgrade was completed between April 2010 and August 2011 and include removing the old cradle and marine railway and designing and building new ones to accommodate two larger vessels simultaneously. It also included dredging and reconstructing the wharf, general paving and repairs, fencing, and shop and office repairs.
"We also want to thank our employees and their families," said Steve Durrell, president Irving Shipbuilding. "They remained loyal to Shelburne Ship Repair, completing the two-year modernization project and even travelling to work on some of our other repair and build projects.
"To the many local businesses and suppliers who helped make this renewed vision a reality, thank you for contributing to a future full of opportunity."
Irving Shipbuilding only Canadian Shipyard included as Leading Global Shipyard by Maritime Reporter
Halifax, NS, September 6, 2011: Irving Shipbuilding is the only Canadian shipyard to be featured in the global industry publication
Maritime Reporter & Engineering News as one of two dozen leading shipbuilders around the world.
"We are very proud to be featured alongside such companies as Ulstein Shipyard of Norway, Jurong Shipyard of Singapore, and Dutch shipbuilding giant Damen, which owns more than 35 shipyards worldwide,” said Steve Durrell, President, Irving Shipbuilding.
"We’ve been focused on our vision to become one of two shipbuilding centres of excellence for Canada, and over the past five years have been steadily investing in our people, infrastructure, and processes in order to be ready to build the next generation fleet for our country. We’re pleased those investments and efforts are being recognized within our industry.”
Published out of New York, New York, Maritime Reporter & Engineering News has been in business for more than 65 years and provides information and news to maritime industry decision makers globally.
"The August 2011 edition of Maritime Reporter & Engineering News was our 'Shipyard Edition,' and here we provided a feature focus of nearly two dozen leading shipbuilders from around the world," said Greg Trauthwein, Editor & Associate Publisher, Maritime Reporter & Engineering News. "Irving Shipbuilding, one of a handful of companies with a full-page feature focus, certainly belongs in this group, as it has a rich and long history; a stable, long-tenured leadership; and a commitment to investing in modern infrastructure, facilities and employees; all traits that are hallmarks of a world-class shipbuilder."
August 2011 Edition, Maritime Reporter & Engineering News:
http://www.digitalwavepublishing.com/pubs/nwm/maritimereporter/201108/
The First of Four Tug’s Delivered from Irving Shipbuilding’s East Isle Facility
Irving Shipbuilding Inc., delivers the first of four of it’s popular 30m ASD tugs to Nordane of Denmark.
East Isle Shipyard in Prince Edward Island , Canada, a Division of Irving Shipbuilding Inc., has delivered the first of four (4) Tugs to Nordane Shipping, Svendborg, Denmark on the 8th of September 2009. Present at the christening from the owner's side were Mr. Niels Hansen and Mr. Flemming Hansen along with their wive’s. The new Ice Class Tug was christened by the wife of the President of Irving Shipbuilding, Inc., Mrs. Karen Durrell, her husband Mr. Steve Durrell hosted the event. The Tug, “Stevns Icequeen,” had undergone sea trials and was accepted by the Owner as meeting all of the specification requirements.
After delivery, the Tug transited the Atlantic Ocean to Denmark to begin work for the Owner. Upon arrival at its home port, Esbjerg, it was dispatched almost immediately to assist a Danish vessel in distress due to heavy weather that had lost steering power and evacuated most of the crew. The Stevns Icequeen took the vessel in tow and delivered it safely to the Port of Fredericia Skibsvaerft.
Measuring 30.8m x 11.14m x 3.88m draft, two of the LRclassed tugs are Ice Class 1A powered by a pair of Caterpillar 3516BHD diesels, developing 2,500hp each at 1,600 rpm and the other two will be non-Ice Class powered by Caterpillar 3516BHD diesels developing 2682hp at 1600 RPM. Rolls-Royce Aquamaster Z drives with controllable pitch propellers of 2.4m diameter are installed on the Ice Class tugs while the non-Ice Class tugs will be fitted with Rolls-Royce Aquamaster Z drives with controllable pitch propellers of 2.8m diameter. The Ice Class tugs will develop 60 tonnes of bollard pull while the non Ice Class tugs will develop 70 tonnes of bollard pull.
A Kamewa bow thruster of 150kW is also fitted on all four tugs.
Auxiliary power is provided by two Volvo Penta gensets developing 165kW each. A Volvo Penta harbor gen-set developing 85kW is also fitted on each tug.
For towing and anchor-handling operations, a set of 200mm tow-pins and a stern roller are installed along with a 150 tonne Ridderinkhof aft towing winch, Ridderinkhof tugger winch/capstan, a 75 tonne Washington Chain tow-hook. The aft winch is capable of storing 762m of 51mm wire.
Comfortable accommodations for 6 is provided. Noise levels are within the stringent requirements of the Danish Maritime Authorities.
Two remote-controlled FiFi monitors supplied by Fire Fighting Systems capable of a discharge rate of 1,200 m3/hr each are fitted aft above the wheelhouse. The monitors are supplied by a dedicated pump of 2,800 m3/hr, driven off the front end of the port main engine. A water curtain of 300m3/hr is supplied by the pump, or alternatively foam can be supplied at 300m3/hr.
Below the waterline, the tug is fitted with a large “escort” keel forward to provide effective indirect towing capability and enhance course keeping, especially when running astern. The two Ice Class tugs are fitted with an ice-stop on the forward end of the skeg and two ice knives on the aft hull.
Deliveries are scheduled for 2009 and 2010. The second vessel is scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2009.
The vessels will be managed by Nordane Shipping of Svendborg, Denmark. CMC of Aarhus, Denmark are the owners’ consultants on this contract.
Irving Shipbuilding Inc. (ISI)- Your first call for east coast shipbuilding, conversion, fabrication and repair – (902-423-9271)
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