C Lapierre News

ABB technology allowing integration of batteries receives major vote of confidence as Louis Dreyfus Armateurs orders second wind farm service vessel featuring a wide scope of ABB’s solutions.Maritime transportation group Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA) will add a second 83 meter windfarm service operation vessel (SOV) to its fleet, featuring an extensive range of ABB’s technology, with the award-winning power distribution system Onboard DC Grid at its core. The vessel will support operations at Hornsea Project Two off the UK coast…

Transport Minister Jean-C. Lapierre announced the purchase of new marine pollution aerial surveillance equipment that will significantly strengthen Transport Canada's National Aerial Surveillance Program. The $2.3 million contract will cover the purchase of the equipment, as well as the on-board crew training. "The Government of Canada is committed to preventing pollution from ships and to continuously enhancing the protection of our marine environment," said Mr. Lapierre. Transport Canada conducts aerial surveillance to detect marine pollution from ships. When such pollution is detected, charges may be laid under the Canada Shipping Act.

President George Bush has signed into law legislation repealing a four year old rule imposing a 50% duty on the cost of routine repairs and maintenance carried out by U.S. merchant mariners while their vessel is at sea. The elimination of the duty, which customs authorities have levied on US-flag carriers since April 2001, represents a victory for the domestic shipowning community. The community has lobbied hard against it since its introduction. President Bush signed into law the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (S. 2845). The major emphasis of the legislation is reform of the U.S. intelligence organization. Other measures, though, may impact the maritime community.

Transport Minister Jean-C. Lapierre announced that amendments to the Canada Marine Act have been introduced in Parliament. These amendments would provide Canada Port Authorities (CPA) with access to federal contribution programs for key infrastructure improvements. They would also enhance the safety and efficiency of Canadian waterways by reforming the enforcement regime. "It is important that Canada’s ports be modern, efficient, competitive and able to respond quickly to emerging global opportunities and growing business volumes with China and other markets," said Mr. Lapierre. The Canada Marine Act governs the marine sector in Canada.

Mr. Geoff Regan, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans announced, on behalf of Transport Minister Jean-C. Lapierre, that Transport Canada will provide close to $26,000 in funding for a study on shortsea shipping on the east coast of North America to be conducted by the Faculty of Management of Dalhousie University. Shortsea shipping refers to the movement of cargo and passengers by water along coastlines, to and from nearby islands, or within lakes and river systems, but without crossing an ocean. Increased use of shortsea shipping could also help ease freight transportation congestion and improve air quality. “This study will assist government and industry in realizing shortsea shipping’s potential by shedding light on the challenges that affect it,” said Mr. Regan.

Transport Minister Jean-C. Lapierre announced that following a competitive bidding process, Verreault Navigation Inc. of Les Méchins, Quebec, has been awarded a $4.8 million contract to modify and enhance some of the design elements of the ferry M/V Madeleine operated by CTMA Traversier Ltée. between Cap-aux-Meules, in the Iles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec, and Souris, Prince Edward Island. "As a Madelinot, I am proud of the quality service offered by the Madeleine to our community and Prince Edward Island," said Mr. Lapierre. The Madeleine will be equipped with a new stern and modified to expand the loading deck, allow the ferry to carry more cargo and dock more easily, and provide better access for inspections and maintenance.