A coalition of 15 Canadian labour unions representing more than 7,000 marine workers has launched a campaign demanding that BC Ferries construct its future fleet within British Columbia.
The campaign emerged after the ferry operator awarded a contract for four new vessels to a shipyard in China.
The unions cited a November survey, which found that 84 per cent of British Columbians favour a strategy to retain domestic shipbuilding employment, whilst 61 per cent stated that new ferries should be constructed within the province.
“Public dollars should support BC workers and build a stronger economy here at home,” said Scott Lunny, Director of United Steelworkers District 3.
Union leaders warned that procuring vessels abroad introduces operational risks, highlighting extended maintenance delays when local operators must await international components and technicians.
“When our ferries are built overseas, British Columbia is at the mercy of global supply chains for parts and repairs,” explained Eric McNeely, President of the BC Ferry and Marine Workers Union.
Regional facilities have previously produced provincial vessels including the North Island Princess, Quadra Queen, and Skeena Queen, alongside modular assemblies for the federal Polar Icebreaker.
Industry and trade representatives argued that a long-term domestic building commitment would provide the certainty needed to modernise shipyard infrastructure and expand provincial apprenticeships.
