Second Fast Ferry Launched

B.C.'s second fast ferry was launched by Premier Glen Clark and Gordon Wilson, minister responsible for BC Ferries, in the company of more than 150 B.C. shipyard workers. "The workers on this project have once again done an absolutely magnificent job," said Clark. "It is a testament to their skills and abilities that they have built a finished product that international experts have cited as world class." "I'm also pleased to see the productivity improvements in the second PacifiCat," said Clark. "This ship moved from initial construction to launch six months faster than did the first fast ferry, while total construction time for the second ship will be eight months shorter than for the first." "I'm encouraged by the improvements in the construction schedule," said Wilson. "This bodes well for the B.C. shipbuilding industry's efforts to enter the international market. Vancouver Shipyards' recently announced partnership with an international designer to seek orders around the world for B.C.-built aluminum fast ferries adds to the momentum the PacifiCat program has brought to our shipbuilding and marine industries." More than 600 direct shipbuilding jobs have been created by the PacifiCat project, as well as more than 500 indirect jobs in supporting industries.