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HALIFAX, NS – Irving Shipbuilding joined partners and community leaders today to celebrate the grand opening of the Maritime Museum Boat School on Halifax’s historic Waterfront, marking a significant milestone supported in part by the company’s 5-year, $2.5 million investment in the Canadian Maritime Heritage Foundation for the program’s infrastructure and operations.

The Maritime Museum Boat School plays a vital role in educating future generations by offering hands-on learning and experiences in maritime skills, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s maritime history. It promotes sustainability through teaching traditional boat-building techniques while incorporating modern practices.

The Boat School will provide expanded capacity at the museum for its “Building Boats, Changing Lives” workshops. Irving Shipbuilding’s funding will support the creation of essential infrastructure for the Boat School program, including the building and small boat marina, and operational costs of the Boat School program.

The school will serve as the hub of a network of youth-empowering workshops for young people from underrepresented groups in communities throughout Nova Scotia. Boat School also offers opportunities for individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to build connections and develop maritime heritage skills, including on-the-water experiences, in a safe and welcoming environment.

Irving Shipbuilding’s funding is part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy Value Proposition obligation, through which Irving Shipbuilding is committed to investing 0.5% of contract value in research and initiatives to support a vibrant and sustainable marine industry in Canada.

QUOTES

“At the Halifax Shipyard, our employees know firsthand what it means to build a future on the water, and this gives young Nova Scotians a chance to get their start. It keeps our maritime traditions alive while creating real opportunities for the next generation. We’re proud to support the Canadian Maritime Heritage Foundation in making it happen.”

Jim Irving, CEO, Irving Shipbuilding

“The new Boat School represents a meaningful investment in the future of Nova Scotia’s marine sector. Boat School will have a positive impact on the lives of Nova Scotia’s youth while strengthening connections to our maritime heritage. Irving Shipbuilding is proud to support the Canadian Maritime Heritage Foundation in delivering this important initiative and advancing a sustainable and inclusive industry.” 

Dirk Lesko, President, Irving Shipbuilding

“The new Boat School is a wonderful addition to the Halifax waterfront. Built with climate resiliency in mind, it will create meaningful opportunities for youth from diverse backgrounds. Through workshops and programming, participants will develop boatbuilding and sailing skills in an accessible and inclusive environment.”

Shannon Miedema, Member of Parliament for Halifax, on behalf of Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure