Vancouver Shipyard Starts Building First NSPS Vessel
The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, joined by Andrew Saxton, Member of Parliament for North Vancouver and John Weston, Member of Parliament for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country, announced that Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards (VSY) has started construction on the first National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS) ship, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG)’s Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel (OFSV). It was also announced that the first ship will be named CCGS Sir John Franklin in honour of a British Royal Navy officer and explorer of the Arctic. Found in September 2014, Franklin’s ships are an important part of Canadian history given that his expeditions…
Canada Aims for 'World-class' Tankship Safety System
Canada acts to upgrade its safety system for shipping oil & liquefied natural gas safely through Canada’s waterways before any major new energy export facilities become operational. Tanker inspections: The number of inspections will increase to ensure that all foreign tankers are inspected on their first visit to Canada, and annually thereafter, to ensure they comply with rules and regulations, especially with respect to double hulls. Systematic surveillance and monitoring of ships: The government will expand the National Aerial Surveillance Program (NASP).
Shore Power for Cruise Ships, Canada
Port Metro Vancouver unveiled its new shore power facility at the Canada Place cruise ship terminal. The port is the first in Canada to install shore power for cruise ships, and only the third in the world to do so. The shore power installation at the home port of the Vancouver-Alaska cruise — one of the world's most popular cruises — is the result of a $9m cooperative initiative between the Government of Canada, the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, BC Hydro and Port Metro Vancouver. Representatives from each of the participating organizations gathered at Canada Place today to formally launch the project.
DPW Controversy Continues
In its daily press briefing, the White House included a lengthy discussion of the process that led to the Administration’s approval of the acquisition by Dubai Ports World (DPW) of U.S. port facilities owned by P&O Ports. The White House also released a Fact Sheet outlining the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). Representative Nadler (D-NY) wants the process stopped until Congress can review it thoroughly. Representative Pallone (D-NJ) is seeking legislation to keep ownership of American ports out of the hands of foreign governments. Representative Saxton (R-NJ) indicated that a Congressional hearing would be held in the near future to examine the planned transaction.
