Prime Minister Mark Carney has revealed that the federal government is set to invest $11.3 billion into Quebec’s shipbuilding sector to construct six new icebreakers for the Canadian Coast Guard. Describing it as the “largest” shipbuilding agreement in the province’s history, Carney emphasized that these new vessels will replace the coast guard’s aging heavy and medium icebreakers, fulfilling a commitment made in 2019.
During the announcement at the Chantier Davie shipyard in Lévis, Que., Carney detailed the timeline for the project. He indicated that construction would commence next fall with the cutting of the first steel, followed by the delivery of the initial ship in five years. The full fleet is expected to be operational five years after that, catering to various regions including Atlantic Canada, the St. Lawrence River during winter, and the Arctic during summer.
Joined by Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette at the shipyard, Carney highlighted the significance of the contract in creating economic opportunities and safeguarding the province’s autonomy. Fréchette, who is gearing up for a provincial election, expressed her satisfaction with the deal, emphasizing the job prospects it will generate, particularly for welders and technicians.
The project is projected to support around 5,000 jobs during the construction phase and aligns with the federal government’s “Buy Canadian” procurement policy, utilizing Canadian steel for the vessels. This initiative follows Ottawa’s recent $19.6-million contract with Davie in 2024 under the national shipbuilding strategy to design the six new Polar Class 3 icebreakers.
The announcement coincides with the breakdown of trade negotiations with the United States and escalating tariff threats from President Donald Trump against Canadian industries. As part of a broader fleet modernization effort, the coast guard is undergoing significant renewal, with the national shipbuilding strategy overseeing the delivery of a total of 88 new vessels by 2045.