A Wheatley shipbuilder will make the next generation of Canadian Coast Guard search and rescue lifeboats.
Hike Metal Products has been awarded the 43.4-million contract by the federal government.
The company is required to build six vessels, with options of up to four more.
The lifeboats will provide key search and rescue services, including conducting searches on water, responding to marine distress calls and providing assistance to disabled vessels.
“This contract will sustain an estimated 20 jobs, on top of adding another 25 jobs over the course of the year,” says Chatham-Kent-Essex MP Dave Van Kesteren. “I am proud to be part of the government that made the decision to build ships right here in Canada.”
Hike Metal lost a bid last month to build the Pelee Island ferry.
Delivery of the first lifeboats is scheduled for the spring of 2017.
