Vessel replacement proposals under review

Jim Walsh, Minister of Works, Services and Transportation, announced today that the Request for Proposals (RFP) to replace the MV Hamilton Sound has closed and the department received proposals from two proponents with local connections.

"Two groups with a strong presence in the province responded to the department�s request. Now that we have their proposals in hand, we will move to the evaluation stage of the process," said Minister Walsh. "A preliminary look indicates both proponents would construct the vessel here in the province, which I am pleased to hear."

A review committee, comprised of an independent consultant and officials from the department, is currently analyzing the proposals to determine if they meet the criteria outlined in the RFP. The committee expects to complete the review in the coming weeks.

The replacement of the MV Hamilton Sound is the first phase in government�s vessel replacement and refurbishment program, which was announced in this year�s budget. The 34-year-old Hamilton Sound is currently used as a swing vessel along the northeast coast of the island while other vessels are on planned refit. The vessel was deemed a priority for replacement by the department in Budget 2003. The replacement vessel will be part of the provincial fleet operated by the Department of Works, Services and Transportation.

Media contact: Lynn Evans, Communications, (709) 729-3015

2003 10 17                                         3:40 p.m.