Ontario Construction News staff writer
Heddle Shipyards has signed a long-term agreement with Vancouver-based shipyard Seaspan to build ship components under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.
Seaspan and Heddle have also partnered to bid on the construction of the Polar Icebreaker for the Canadian Coast Guard. If won, Heddle will support the construction through its modular fabrication program.
Heddle Shipyards operates the largest number of shipyards and dry docks in Canada. We have been in continuous operation since 1987 and we are expanding.
“I want to congratulate Heddle Shipyards on this long-term agreement, as it cements Ontario’s position as one of the best places in the country for major manufacturers to compete, succeed, and grow,” said Premier Doug Ford.
“This historic partnership with Seaspan will create highly skilled, well-paying jobs in communities across the province, contribute to the construction of quality, Ontario-made components for these ships, and reinforce Hamilton’s status as a critical transportation hub in the province.”
Over the next decade, Heddle Shipyards will be the primary supplier for ladders, gratings and handrails for the JSS 1 (currently under construction), JSS 2, and an Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel. These components will be manufactured at their facilities in Hamilton, St. Catharines, and Thunder Bay, creating jobs across Ontario’s advanced manufacturing supply chain.
The projects will generate tens of millions of dollars in economic activity in Ontario, employ at least 50 workers, and create the potential for additional opportunities, such as supplying larger ship modules in the future.
Seaspan and Heddle have also partnered to bid on the construction of the Polar Icebreaker for the Canadian Coast Guard. If won, Heddle will support the construction through its modular fabrication program.
“Our province has one of the best advanced manufacturing sectors in the world, and this new investment by Heddle Shipyards will strengthen it even further,” said Minister Vic Fedeli. “We support this innovative cross-country collaboration that emphasizes Ontario-made ship components and places Ontario back on the map as a destination for shipbuilding.”
The City of Hamilton was recently designated as a Foreign Trade Zone by the federal government, joining Niagara and Windsor. Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) attract new investment and encourage Ontario and Canadian businesses to expand internationally by providing local businesses with access to tariff and tax exemption programs, while importing materials or goods. The FTZ designation further positions Hamilton as an international transportation hub.
“This agreement marks a significant moment for our company and the Province of Ontario,” said Shaun Padulo. “We are extremely proud that Ontario Shipyards will play an increasingly significant role in the National Shipbuilding Strategy and grateful for the opportunity to support Seaspan Shipyards, the Canadian Coast Guard and the Royal Canadian Navy.”
“The contract signed by Heddle Shipyards is a tremendous opportunity for workers in Hamilton and the surrounding region,” said Parliamentary Assistant Skelly. “It will also help revitalize the shipbuilding industry in Ontario.”
Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger says the announcement recognizes the importance of the city’s shipbuilding industry and its role in Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy.
“The participation of Heddle Shipyards in the National Shipbuilding Strategy will increase their momentum as they help revitalize the shipbuilding industry in Ontario and create more well-paying jobs,” he said.