The Provincial Government is awarding a contract valued at $110,000 to CPCS Transcom Ltd. to undertake an assessment of Newfoundland and Labrador’s shipbuilding sector and its ability to support the construction of three new vessels for the province’s intra-provincial ferry fleet.
A dependable ferry network plays a critical role in linking communities, supporting economic activity, and providing residents and businesses with access to essential transportation services. As the Provincial Government continues its work to strengthen the long-term sustainability and reliability of ferry services, this assessment will help determine the province’s readiness to undertake future ferry construction projects closer to home.
Through the review, CPCS Transcom Ltd., the preferred bidder as a result of a public Request for Proposals, will work with key industry and government stakeholders, including shipyard operators, marine designers, construction companies, labour organizations, and public sector partners. The assessment will examine the current state of the industry, including shipyard infrastructure, workforce availability, technical expertise, and overall capacity to participate in the construction of new ferries.
The study will identify opportunities and challenges within the sector and provide recommendations to help strengthen Newfoundland and Labrador’s shipbuilding capabilities. Findings will support a better understanding of workforce development requirements, training, infrastructure upgrades, and strategic investments that may be needed to foster a competitive and sustainable shipbuilding industry capable of supporting future marine transportation needs.
The assessment supports the Provincial Government’s platform commitment to replace aging ferries with a modern reliable ferry service, exploring options to build vessels in the province. It will serve as an important planning tool regarding options for future vessel construction, maximizing economic benefits for Newfoundland and Labrador, also aligning with the platform commitment to support strategic industries, grow the skilled workforce, and maximize local participation in major capital projects.
The final report is expected to be completed by March 31, 2027.
Information on public calls for bids issued and awarded by the Provincial Government and other public bodies is available at www.merx.com/govnl.
Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador has a proud history of shipbuilding and marine expertise. This assessment is an important step in understanding how we can build on those strengths to support future ferry construction while creating jobs, growing our skilled workforce, and generating economic benefits throughout the province. By working with industry, labour, and community partners, we are positioning Newfoundland and Labrador to take advantage of new opportunities and ensure our transportation infrastructure continues to serve residents and businesses well into the future.”
Honourable Tony Wakeham
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“This assessment will help us identify the capacity, training needs, and investments required to develop a sustainable shipbuilding sector that can support future ferry construction in our province. Building ferries in Newfoundland and Labrador begins with a unified strategy and strong collaboration with industry partners to ensure long-term success and create economic opportunities for years to come.”
Honourable Barry Petten
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs
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