Sidney, B.C. – The Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, officially introduced three new Coast Guard ships in British Columbia to the Canadian Coast Guard fleet. The three vessels were built as a result of funds provided under Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
“Today’s dedication of CCGS Cape Naden is a clear demonstration of our Government’s commitment to the Canadian Coast Guard and making sure that our Coast Guard officers have the tools they need to do their job,” said Minister Ashfield. “These new vessels are a great addition to the Coast Guard fleet and are being used extensively for search and rescue operations throughout Canada. The enhanced capabilities of the vessels is now considered the service standard for coastal inshore operations in the Pacific region.”
The three new vessels are among the five 47-foot motor lifeboats constructed by Victoria Shipyards Co. Ltd. as part of a $19.6 million contract under Canada’s Economic Action Plan. In addition to replacing existing Coast Guard vessels, the contract supported the local marine industry and strengthened the local economy through job creation and infrastructure investment. Of the two other vessels constructed in the contract, one vessel was delivered to Quebec and one to Ontario.
In B.C., the CCGS Cape Palmerston was officially named and dedicated at a ceremony at Campbell River at the end of June, while CCGS Cape Dauphin will be officially named and dedicated at a ceremony at Prince Rupert at the end of July. These new vessels replace two older vessels which are being retired from service.
The Cape Class lifeboat design has consistently proven to be highly capable and effective, making it the service standard for coastal inshore operations across Canada. Since its introduction, vessels of this design have been used extensively for search and rescue operations at eight of Coast Guard’s 11 stations on the Pacific coast.
The new vessels are designed to operate safely in maximum storm conditions with a continuous wind speed of up to 80 knots and associated seas of up to 12 metres. The vessels are self-bailing and self-righting, allowing for safer operations in rough conditions.
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For more information:
Dan Bate
Communications Officer
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Canadian Coast Guard
604-775-8809
604-209-6225
