We were pleased to support longtime North Vancouver Chamber Annual Partner Seaspan on October 14 for a major Canadian shipbuilding milestone: the keel laying of the Canadian Coast Guard’s new polar icebreaker, CCGS Imnaryuaq, at the North Vancouver shipyard.
A keel laying marks the official start of a ship’s physical construction and assembly. Approximately 2,000 Seaspan workers, whose skill and expertise are bringing this world-class vessel to life, gathered to observe the milestone.
A traditional welcome by Sekyu Siyam Chief Ian Campbell of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and cedar brushing by Tsitsáyxemaat Rebecca Duncan and Chámiy̓a Janis Campbell were part of the morning’s proceedings.
Speakers included Braedon Caley, Member of Parliament for North Vancouver–Capilano; the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs; John McCarthy, CEO of Seaspan Shipyards; and Kevin Brosseau, Canadian Coast Guard Commissioner.
Strengthening Canada’s Arctic sovereignty and security
The milestone highlights North Vancouver’s shipbuilding capabilities and the important role our local industry and workforce play in strengthening Canada’s Arctic sovereignty and security.
Once complete, the vessel will be the largest ever built for the Canadian Coast Guard, capable of operating year-round in the high Arctic to support maritime security, search and rescue, environmental response, scientific research, and Northern communities.
Supporting local jobs and economic growth
Building this advanced vessel right here in North Vancouver also delivers significant economic benefits, supporting good-paying, skilled jobs, strengthening local supply chains, and showcasing our community’s industrial expertise on the world stage.
A name with significance
Imnaryuaq, meaning “big cliff,” is named after a culturally significant cape at the southern end of Banks Island in the Northwest Territories. The name was chosen in collaboration with Inuit organizations to honour Inuit placenames and culture.
During the ceremony, an Inuit Nunangat commemorative coin was placed beneath the vessel’s keel, a longstanding shipbuilding tradition symbolizing good fortune and safe passage while honouring Inuit culture and heritage.
Congratulations to Seaspan and its dedicated workforce on this remarkable milestone. It’s a proud moment for North Vancouver and a powerful demonstration of what our local shipbuilding industry can achieve for Canada’s economy, security, and future.
