Provincial: Premier Tours Bluenose II Construction Site

Provinical Release:
Premier Darrell Dexter was in Lunenburg today, Aug. 18, to tour the construction site for the Bluenose II restoration project and see the impact the project is having on the local economy.

"I am pleased that the province's support of the Bluenose II restoration project is helping to create good jobs and grow the economy," said Premier Dexter. "The Bluenose II is fundamental to the identity of the province of Nova Scotia and we're committed to seeing this project through."

The premier was joined by Prime Minister Stephen Harper as he visited the project site on the Lunenburg waterfront. Bluenose II was moved to Lunenburg Foundry and Industrial Engineering on Aug. 16, for the next phase of work.

"There is tremendous interest in this project and that is great for the local tourism industry," said Premier Dexter. "When construction begins this fall, there will be opportunities for visitors to learn about the history of the Bluenose and the skills of Nova Scotia's boat builders."

The province is investing $9.9 million in the Bluenose II restoration project. A $12.5-million construction contract was awarded to the Lunenburg Shipyard Alliance on July 8 as part of the announcement by the provincial and federal governments in May 2009. The federal government's contribution comes through the federal Infrastructure Stimulus Fund.

The alliance includes Covey Island Boatworks, Lunenburg Foundry and Industrial Engineering and Synder's Shipyard Ltd. of Daysprings, Lunenburg Co.