The Atlantic Liberal caucus unanimously agreed Wednesday to support the Halifax shipyard’s bid for a major contract under the $35 billion national shipbuilding procurement strategy.

Atlantic caucus chair Mark Eyking said all MPs and Senators from the region believe Irving Shipbuilding Inc is the best choice to build the combat ships for Canada’s Defence Department.

“Our caucus has expressed its belief in the need for a fair, open and transparent bid process under the national shipbuilding procurement strategy and we are throwing our unconditional support behind the Halifax bid.” Eyking said.

“This $35 billion procurement package represents a tremendous opportunity for our region’s economy to move forward and combined with other major energy and infrastructure projects it will give us a tremendous economic boost,” Geoff Regan, M.P. for Halifax West said.

The province of Nova Scotia is also a centre for research and development in the defence, security and aerospace sector strengthening our bid Mr. Regan added.

The Irving shipyard in Halifax is one of the most modern and efficient ship yards in North America It already has 1,300 engaged, experienced, dedicated and professional employees, including more than250 apprentices. Their modern facilities, exceptional track record, and highly skilled work force make Nova Scotia the premier location for shipbuilding in Canada.

The facts of the shipyard are impressive. The ship yard has invested almost $90 million in the skills of its people and the infrastructure and technology upgrades between 2006 and 2011.

Source: http://www.bedfordbeacon.com/atlantic-canada-liberals-support-halifax-shipyard