News Release

For immediate release 
July 3, 2003 

Government of Canada Supports Nova Scotia Community College for Upgrade of Navigation Simulation

Port Hawkesbury, N.S. - The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), announced today Government of Canada funding to upgrade navigational and simulation equipment at the Nautical Institute of the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), Strait Area Campus in Port Hawkesbury.

The Nautical Institute will upgrade its navigation simulation equipment and dynamic positioning capability. Dynamic positioning is a computer system that allows offshore petroleum drilling to maintain a specific position, which is critical to ensure optimal drilling and petroleum production. Upgrades to the simulation equipment include the acquisition of a Polaris System, Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), as well as space modifications and a 12-station LAN system.

The Polaris System replicates a modern ship’s bridge control systems, including radar, anti-collision, electronic chart and engine controls. The ECDIS is a computer-based marine navigation system that uses navigational charts and electronic positioning to provide an integrated navigation tool. The International Maritime Organization, which is an agency of the United Nations that deals with maritime affairs, has accepted the use of ECDIS. 

“The upgrades to the nautical simulation equipment are a necessity in order to stay compliant with industry needs and Transport Canada training standards,” said Rodger Cuzner, MP for Bras d’Or-Cape Breton, on behalf of Minister Byrne. “This project with NSCC is an opportunity to support development of the offshore oil and gas industry by providing strategic training, particularly in the area of dynamic positioning.” 

“The Nautical Institute provides simulator training for a diverse and sophisticated range of provincial and international clients including those associated with merchant fleets, the fishing industry, regulatory clients and the military,” said Bert Lewis, principal of NSCC, Strait Area Campus.  “The simulator upgrades provide an enhanced capacity to deliver integrated simulator training and further NSCC’s role as a leader in Simulated Electronic Navigation (SEN).” 

The total cost of the project is $1,650,000. ACOA, through its Business Development Program, will provide a non-repayable contribution of $500,000. As well, an additional $150,000 non-repayable contribution will be provided by ECBC. The upgrades are expected to create at least two full-time jobs at the Institute, in addition to training Nova Scotians for successful careers in the offshore industry. The upgraded facility is expected to open in September of 2003. 

NSCC is a vibrant college network of 13 campuses providing sophisticated, industry-driven learning experiences in over 100 programs, for 8,500 Nova Scotians every year. A recently announced multi-year plan to enhance NSCC, will modernize facilities, increase student capacity, and enhance skill-driven learning programs. For regular updates on NSCC, go to www.nscc.ca.

Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA’s programs on Cape Breton Island and in the Mulgrave area. 

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:

Office of Rodger Cuzner, MP 
Bras d’Or-Cape Breton 
Tel: (902) 842-9763 

D.A. Landry 
ECBC Communications 
Tel: (902) 564-3617

Bert Lewis
Principal, NSCC, Strait Area Campus
Tel: (902) 625-4362