“Historic Alliance” between Davie Shipyard and the Huron-Wendat Nation

The Huron-Wendat Nation is pleased to close what has been described as a “historic” alliance with shipbuilder Davie in Levis, as it signed one of the most significant agreements in its history with an economic partner on Monday.

Under the five-year agreement, the two partners agree to work jointly on initiatives of a social, cultural and economic nature.

In addition, a committee will be formed with the aim of developing constructive partnerships and creating specialized training for the workforce.

Furthermore, mechanisms will be developed to facilitate the recruitment of Nation members and purchases from Huron-Wendat businesses.

Juicy deals

Almost a year ago, we learned that the shipyard would reclaim its place in the National Shipbuilding Strategy and thereby inherit $8.5 billion in federal contracts for the construction of nine ships.

“I will not hide from you that we have a firm eye on this,” began Rémy Vincent, the nation's great leader, after signing the document in Vendée.

He said he was excited about the potential benefits, although he did not announce any quantitative commitment regarding job creation or investments.

According to him, Davie is one of the largest companies with which the Huron-Wendats have established links in their history.

“We have companies that are suppliers to the Davie construction site with upcoming contracts. There are huge contracts. Obviously, workforce, workforce training, there are needs that we can fill in Davie,” he said.

Announcing that he will not seek a second term as Grand Chief, Mr. Vincent spoke of an important legacy in his vision for economic development.

He reminded that henceforth the federal government requires its departments to give at least 5% of the value of contracts to indigenous businesses.

Photo by Stevens LeBlanc

Note, however, that this requirement does not apply to the $8.5 billion envelope, as calls for tenders predate this provision.

Reconciliation

Davie, for his part, explained that he sought from day one to respond to the call to action included in the report of Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

“We have worked together for the last two years and today we have closed this agreement, which will put the voice towards concrete actions for both organizations to achieve a constructive partnership,” rejoiced Marcel Poulin, Director of External Affairs and Industrial Partnerships.

The company is committed to continuing its participation in the Nation's community and cultural events, which specifically benefit the Wendek International Pow Wow.

The treaty bears the name “Ontatenses,” which means “we respect each other” in Huron-Wendat.

Photo by Stevens LeBlanc

“You know, the Huron-Wendat Nation has occupied its traditional territory, Neoventsio, for millennia, and to partner with Canada's largest shipbuilder, it's a very ordinary day for us,” added. Dave Lavey, is the chief responsible for the country's economic development.

Finally, the agreement plans to take steps to promote equity, diversity and inclusion of members of the Nation and mutual understanding between the two organizations.