Province Seeks to Intervene in Bluenose II Case

The Government of Nova Scotia is seeking to intervene in a court case involving copyright and trademark issues related to the Bluenose II. The request was filed today, Aug. 28, in the Nova Scotia Supreme Court.

"We are taking this action on behalf of all Nova Scotians -- who are the owners of Bluenose II," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism and Culture. "We did not initiate the court action, but as the owner of the vessel, it is our position that the province has rights to the name and image of Bluenose II."

The Bluenose II Preservation Trust Society is suing Tall Ships Art Productions Limited in Waverley, claiming copyright and trademark infringement.

"Our position is that the name and image of the Bluenose II should be protected and used appropriately," said Mr. MacDonald. "We believe the province, not the society, has this responsibility."

The society is a volunteer organization and a registered charity.

The Bluenose II Preservation Trust Society operates the vessel under contract with Tourism and Culture. The seven-year contract expires in 2005. The department provides an annual investment of $650,000 to the society to operate the vessel.

"The Bluenose II is Nova Scotia's internationally recognized icon," said Mr. MacDonald. "The vessel and its images have cultural and heritage significance, tourism value, and can be used to promote economic development."

The Bluenose II was launched in Lunenburg in 1963. In 1971, it was sold to the province for one dollar by the Oland family of Halifax.