MV Miner Contract Awarded

Government is one step closer to meeting its commitment to remove the MV Miner off the coast of Scatarie Island.

Geoff MacLellan, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, met with the Main-à-Dieu Community Development Association today, May 30, to announce that RJ MacIsaac Construction, an Antigonish-based company, was awarded the contract to remove the ship by November. The work is estimated to cost $11.9 million.

"I'm very pleased to announce we're another step closer toward removal of the MV Miner," said Mr. MacLellan. "The community can now look forward to seeing some action in their area as the contractor starts to get to work."

RJ MacIsaac Construction was one of seven companies that responded to the Request for Proposals (RFP) in March. The bidding process closed April 29.

The proposals were reviewed by a panel of experts to help ensure a fair and transparent process. The panel included representation from the provincial and federal governments, including health and safety officers, officials from the Department of Environment, the provincial procurement office, and Transport Canada.

A point system was used to evaluate the bids considering many factors, including price, method of removal, occupational health and safety considerations, environmental consideration, and worker accommodation. Prospective bidders were made aware of the process, the criteria, and the point system during a mandatory meeting held in advance of the RFP launch.

"We're deeply satisfied that a contract is awarded and appreciative of the province's hard work and due diligence during the bidding process," said Sean Howard, Main-à-Dieu Community Development Association. "The beginning of the end of the MV Miner saga is finally in sight."

RJ MacIsaac has until November to remove the wreck. They will work with the province to develop a project schedule. The community will be kept up to date on the project's timeline.

The MV Miner is a bulk carrier that ran aground more than two years ago off the coast of Scatarie Island.