Lunenburg to Remain Home Port for Bluenose II

TOURISM, CULTURE AND HERITAGE--Lunenburg to Remain Home Port for Bluenose II

Residents of Lunenburg can rest assured that Lunenburg will remain the home port of Nova Scotia's sailing ambassador, Bluenose II.

Rumours have surfaced recently that the government was considering moving the home port of the vessel.

"It is not our intention to change the home port of Bluenose II," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. "Lunenburg is the home port of Bluenose II and will continue to be her home port under any new operating contract or arrangement."

The Bluenose II Preservation Trust Society has been operating the vessel under contract since 1998. That contract expires on March 31. Efforts to develop a new contract with the trust have not been successful to date and the government continues to look at various options.

"We recognize and value the obvious relationship between Lunenburg and Bluenose II," said Mr. MacDonald. "Whatever option is selected, Lunenburg will be the home port for this national icon."

An announcement on which option is selected is expected within two weeks.