Prime Minister Mark Carney has revealed a significant investment of $11.3 billion by the federal government into Quebec’s shipbuilding sector for the construction of six new icebreakers for the Canadian Coast Guard. This project is hailed as the largest shipbuilding contract in Quebec’s history. These new vessels will replace the aging heavy and medium icebreakers of the coast guard, fulfilling a commitment made in 2019.
During the announcement at the Chantier Davie shipyard in Lévis, Quebec, where all six ships will be built, Carney emphasized the swift progress of the project. He stated that the construction will commence next fall, with the first ship expected to be delivered within five years, and the entire fleet operational within ten years from now. The icebreakers will be deployed in various regions, including Atlantic Canada, the St. Lawrence River during winter, and the Arctic during summer.
Joined by Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette, Carney highlighted the job creation aspect of the contract, estimating that it will support around 5,000 jobs during the construction phase. Fréchette emphasized the significance of the contract for Lévis, mentioning that it will bolster the province’s economic autonomy and provide employment opportunities for skilled workers like welders and technicians.
The vessels will be constructed in adherence to the federal government’s “Buy Canadian” procurement policy, utilizing Canadian steel. This initiative aligns with the broader national shipbuilding strategy, which aims to deliver a total of 88 new vessels for the coast guard by 2045. The announcement follows recent trade tensions with the United States, underlining the importance of strengthening domestic industries and fostering economic resilience.
In 2024, Ottawa had initially awarded a $19.6 million contract to Davie under the national shipbuilding strategy for the design of the six new Polar Class 3 icebreakers. The commitment to fleet renewal underscores the government’s long-term vision for enhancing maritime capabilities and supporting the domestic shipbuilding industry.
