National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy - Irving Shipbuilding Inc. and
Davie Yards Inc. propose Shipbuilding Centres of Excellence

HALIFAX , le 17 sept. /CNW/ - Irving Shipbuilding Inc ("ISI") and Davie Yards Inc. (Davie) have agreed to work together in the delivery of quality service and best value to the Canadian Government as Shipbuilding Centres of Excellence, should the Government of Canada adopt this proven and cost effective procurement strategy.

The Government of Canada has challenged Canada's shipbuilders to find solutions for delivering shipbuilding programs in an efficient manner. The agreement between Davie and ISI defines key objectives to provide Canada with best value for money.

The two companies have agreed to cooperate by sharing technology, facilities, and capabilities as dedicated Centres of Excellence for Major Crown Projects involving an allocation model.

This increased collaboration is highlighted in the submissions made by both companies as part of the follow-up requested by the federal government, further to the recent national shipbuilding forum. Implementation of a National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy ("NSPS") that is focused on Centres of Excellence will ensure the renewal of the federal fleet, sustain world class shipbuilding capability and provide more predictable, long term work for the Canadian marine industry. Both companies agree that the sharing of best practices along with their combined skills, technology and shipbuilding capabilities is a vital partnership that will strengthen service to the federal government and provide a cost effective solution for the renewal of the federal fleet.

"We recognize an opportunity to share best practices and technical excellence in serving our #1 customer - the Government of Canada ," said Jim Irving , C.E.O. of Irving Shipbuilding Inc. "The Government rightly expects timely delivery, quality products and strong performance regarding value for money. Working together, Davie and Irving Shipbuilding bring the strength of skill and capacity that will deliver."

The Davie and ISI proposals support the allocation of Major Crown Projects of the fleet renewal program to qualified Centres of Excellence based on the technology required and the nature of the projects. There will also be significant work for smaller shipyards, as well as for small and medium enterprises involved in the supply of goods and services to shipyards.

"I look forward to working with Mr. Kulen , and his team at Davie and the Government to move ahead with developing Centres of Excellence for Canada's shipbuilding sector," said Steve Durrell , President of Irving Shipbuilding Inc.

    
    About Irving Shipbuilding
    -------------------------

    Irving Shipbuilding group has been building quality vessels and fabricated
modules and repairing vessels for over 50 years. The company's four (4)
state-of-the-art facilities and engineering support services group, Fleetway
Inc., provides:

      - Proven naval construction experience for Canada
      - Canada's largest marine engineering group (Fleetway Inc.)
      - Efficient and fast ship repair, refit and conversions
      - World-class health, safety & environmental performance
      - Construction of the world's most versatile ship assist, coastal
        towing and escort tugs
      - Drill rig conversions and upgrades, offshore fabrication
      - Design, engineering, project and supply chain management
      - Quality assurance and technical services
    

From design to construction, and in service support, the Irving Shipbuilding group offers engineering services, project management services and industrial resources that deliver customer focused solutions in three key areas - marine, industrial and engineering services. Irving Shipbuilding's ISO 9001 certified network of ice-free, state-of-the-art deep water facilities ensures year round access. www.irvingshipbuilding.com

For further information: Mary Keith, Vice President Communications, Irving Shipbuilding Inc., [phone], [email protected]