Canadian Coast Guard to acquire three commercial icebreakers

Public Services and Procurement Canada, on behalf of Canadian Coast Guard, has issued an Advanced Contract Award Notice (ACAN) to Chantier Davie of Lévis, Quebec, for the acquisition and conversion of three medium commercial icebreakers.

ACAN has been issued to ensure competitive process in the procurement of ice breakers as it will enable any supplier with a comparable option to also submit a proposal before the final contract is being granted. Furthermore, ACAN confirms the country’s intention to sign a contract with Chantier Davie. Other suppliers will have 15 days to indicate their interest in bidding for this contract through submission of a “statement of capabilities” which would have to meet the requirements as detailed in the ACAN.

The ships are expected to provide interim capability for the Coast Guard while its replacement ships are being constructed as per the National Shipbuilding Strategy.

These icebreakers are essential to enable Canadian ports to remain operational during winter season to ensure safe delivery of goods such as fresh produce and fuel.

Minister of Public Services and Procurement Carla Qualtrough said: “Our Government is committed to supporting the Coast Guard in carrying out its crucial work on behalf of all Canadians. We are one step closer to acquiring supplementary capacity that will support interim icebreaking capability in time for the upcoming icebreaking season. “

These ships will undertake icebreaking duties during the winter and will also be sent when required to the Arctic for summertime programmes.

The deal will see acquisition of a class of three current Anchor Handling Tug Supply icebreakers. The first ship will be deployed for its icebreaking duties during the approaching 2018-2019 season.