CORNER BROOK, NL (May 11, 2020) – The MSC ELBE is expected to arrive at the Port of Corner Brook May 12, 2020 as the inaugural call of a new container service to the Port of Corner Brook. The purpose of this visit is to position empty cargo containers so that the Port and its partners, Logistec Stevedoring Inc. and Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Ltd. can prepare for their first international shipment.
MSC is enhancing its shipping network in Canada by adding a new call to Port of Corner Brook. Building on its existing presence in the Ports of Montreal and Saint John, MSC will deploy the additional service to Corner Brook, beginning this month. MSC is a global leader in transport and logistics, facilitating international trade between the world’s major economies and emerging markets across all continents.
“This new service is a symbol of our long-lasting commitment to Canada and mutually beneficial relationship with the Corner Brook Port Corporation and our customers in Newfoundland and Labrador. What is even more important is our continuous commitment to invest in and serve the Canadian market in general and the Newfoundland and Labrador market in particular, providing services which support local trade ambitions and trigger growth, while opening doors to global opportunities for Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Sokat Shaikh, President and CEO of MSC Canada.
“This international container service at the Port of Corner Brook achieves a key objective in the Port’s long-term strategy” says Jackie Chow, Chief Executive Office of Corner Brook Port Corporation, “we are pleased with this collaboration with MSC, as our global shipping partner, as this service will provide an efficient transportation link to world markets and will support the growth of international trade in western Newfoundland and Labrador, the Province and Canada.”
The 4800 hp tug, Dalton Warrior, will be stationed in the Port of Corner Brook to assist the MSC vessels in safe berthing. The Dalton Warrior is owned and operated by PD Industries and is available to service vessels in the western region.
The Port’s terminal operator, Logistec Stevedoring Inc. will oversee the handling and storing of containers and the loading and unloading of cargo in and out of containers. Over the next two weeks, containers will be filled with cargo, sealed, and tagged in preparation for shipment.
“At LOGISTEC, we firmly believe in this type of partnership. Working together toward a common goal benefits not only the local economy, but the national economy as well. Our investment of $1.7 million will be put toward increasing the operational efficiency at the Port of Corner Brook. Making smart investments in Canadian transportation infrastructure and trade corridors are key to ensuring Canada’s continued success in the global marketplace”, explained Rodney Corrigan, President of LOGISTEC Stevedoring Inc.
This project was made possible by an investment of $5.5 million approved under Transport Canada’s National Trade Corridors Fund. This funding was augmented by $5.5 million contributed by project partners: Corner Brook Port Corporation, Logistec Stevedoring Inc., Corner Brook Pulp and Paper Ltd., and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.
“As Premier, my government was pleased to be a partner for this important expansion project. The arrival of the first international shipment from MSC marks a significant milestone for the Port, the City of Corner Brook and the entire region. By working together, we are creating new economic opportunities for Newfoundland and Labrador and I look forward to seeing this momentum continue.”
– The Honourable Dwight Ball, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“The arrival of an MSC vessel this week is a strong indication that the Corner Brook Port Corporation is prepared to receive and distribute international shipments. Through investments from the federal government’s National Trade Corridors fund, the Port was able to improve their ability to transport international goods, joining a list of world class shipping facilities, while stimulating a vital sector of our local, regional and national economies. The growing business of the Corner Brook Port Corporation is strengthening employment opportunities and business potential in the Long Range Mountains, and across the country.”
– Gudie Hutchings, Member of Parliament for Long Range Mountains
“Transportation and logistics are an essential driver for economic development and the new freight loading infrastructure at the Port of Corner Brook will enable new opportunities to unfold for us all. We are encouraged that our long term partners such as Corner Brook Pulp and Paper and the Barry Group will see benefits from this project just as we are excited that new users will be attracted to our world class facilities. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to partner with the Corner Brook Port Corporation, all of the project partners and the Government of Canada to make this happen.”
– Fisheries and Land Resources Minister and Corner Brook MHA Gerry Byrne