This week, IAM Union General Vice-President, David Chartrand alongside Mike Ferns (Business Representative, District 250), Walter Gerlach (Directing Business Representative, District 250), Steve Prinz (International Representative), David Sullivan (Eastern Territory GVP), George Edwards (Eastern Territory Coordinator), Lori Wilson (Chief of Staff, Eastern Territory), and Neil Douglas (International Representative), visited Seaspan in Vancouver, British Columbia, to see the incredible work our members are doing in support of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy.
The delegation met with company representatives to discuss the importance of shipbuilding in Canada and the critical role it plays in our economy, our national security, and the future of our marine infrastructure. They also explored the current and upcoming projects that will keep our shipyards busy for years to come.
David Chartrand said, “Visiting Seaspan Shipyard reminds us of the extraordinary skill and dedication of our members. Our members are building Canada’s future and strengthening our national security, and contributing to a thriving maritime industry that benefits us all.”
Our members, including Machinists, Millwrights, Safety professionals, Marine and Heavy-Duty Mechanics, are at the heart of this work, building and maintaining vessels for the Canadian Navy and Coast Guard.
Under the National Shipbuilding Strategy, Seaspan is delivering a wide range of ships, including:
- Offshore Fisheries Science Vessels (OSFV): Delivered
- Joint Support Ships (JSS): Under Construction
- Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel (OOSV): Under Construction
- Polar Icebreaker: In Construction Engineering
- Multi-Purpose Vessels: Initial fleet in basic design
The IAM proudly represents members at the Seaspan dry docks and wet docks in Vancouver and at the Esquimalt site in Victoria. Their skills, dedication, and craftsmanship ensure that Canada’s Navy and Coast Guard are equipped with world-class vessels built right here at home.
