International Longshoremen's Association partners with Cape Breton project

Novaporte eyes longterm relationship with The International Longshoreman’s Association

The International Longshoremen’s Association has come on board. Sydney Harbour Investment Partners has announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the International Longshoremen’s Association, establishing the framework for a long-term collaborative relationship supporting the future development and operation of the Novaporte Offshore Wind Logistics Terminal at Point Edward Marine in Sydney harbour. Arranged by Sydney Harbour Investment Partners CEO Albert Barbusci and International Longshoremen’s Association President Harold J. Daggett, the memorandum of understanding reflects a shared commitment to workforce development, operational excellence and long-term employment opportunities as Cape Breton negotiates for Canada’s emerging offshore wind and marine logistics economy.

“Great ports don’t simply move cargo, they create ecosystems,” said Barbusci. “This agreement is another important step toward building the offshore wind ecosystem that Cape Breton will need to compete on the world stage. “The ILA has helped build Canada’s marine economy for generations, and we are proud to begin building that relationship here in Cape Breton.

This partnership reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that the benefits of this new industry are created here at home through local jobs, local skills and long-term opportunities for future generations.” The announcement follows Novaporte Wind Canada LP’s recent prequalification under the Canada–Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator’s inaugural Offshore Wind Call for Bids, another important milestone in building Cape Breton’s offshore wind ecosystem. Novaporte is a limited partnership formed in 2014 to develop a 2,000-plus acre deep-water port, logistics, and green energy hub in Sydney.

It has recently been re-branded to focus on off-shore wind projects. Membertou First Nation holds a 25 per cent equity stake in the Novaporte project. “Building a new industry is not only about today’s opportunities.

It is about preparing future generations to participate in that industry,” said Membertou Chief Terry Paul. “That means bringing together Indigenous communities, organized labour, education and industry so our young people can see a future for themselves here at home. Preparing future generations begins by preparing today’s workforce.

We are proud to stand alongside the ILA and our partners as we continue building that future together.” Daggett said the International Longshoremen’s Association is committed to working alongside Sydney Harbour Investment Partners, Blue Water Shipping, educational institutions such as the Nova Scotia Community College, Indigenous partners and the broader marine industry to help prepare the highly skilled workforce that will be required in the years ahead. “The International Longshoremen’s Association has always believed that the strongest marine industries are built through collaboration, planning and investment in people,” he said.

“The ILA congratulates SHIP and Membertou on achieving their recent offshore wind prequalification. It represents an important milestone for Cape Breton and demonstrates the type of long-term vision needed to support Canada’s emerging offshore wind industry. “The ILA believes Cape Breton has an opportunity to become an important centre for offshore wind logistics, and the ILA looks forward to helping build that future together.”