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$3.25B Investment in Chantier Davie for the Construction of a Polar Icebreaker
Quebec, March 9, 2025 – The team at GBV Avocats welcomes the announcement by the Government of Canada of a $3.25 billion contract awarded to Chantier Davie Canada Inc. for the construction of a polar icebreaker based on the "Polar Max" platform. This news reflects the collective efforts of all colleagues involved in this unprecedented negotiation.
This historic contract will create 1,000 jobs at the Lévis shipyard and an additional 1,000 jobs within Davie’s supply chain. Given the current geopolitical landscape, a contract of this scale will not only have a significant economic impact but also symbolizes Canada’s commitment to defending sovereignty in the Arctic region and asserting strategic leadership. The collaboration it entails with Finland also illustrates Canada and Quebec’s objective to diversify trade relations and support economic growth through the development of a high-value-added industrial subsidiary.
Photo: Davie, Polar Icebreaker.
The development and implementation of such a contract require the collaboration of multidisciplinary teams. Our colleague, Me Charles-Francis Roy, led the team responsible for discussions with the Government of Canada, assisted by Me Alexia Roberge, Me William Bérubé, Me Clovis Roussy, Me Charlotte Reid, Me Marc-André Gravel, and Me Anne-Clara Girard Tremblay. Me Marc-André Gravel, for his part, coordinated the working group responsible for discussions with the Government of Quebec and Finnish authorities, assisted by Me Charles Paul-Hus, Me André Morisset, and Mr. Victor Lopez.
Once again, we take great pride in having worked closely with Davie in achieving another historic milestone. As a Quebec-based firm, deeply rooted here and proud of our heritage, it is a privilege to put our talent to work for the companies that elevate our country and, in this unique period, rise to meet adversity.
The GBV team has been actively involved for several years in various aspects of Davie’s participation in the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS), in addition to providing general legal services. It is worth recalling that Davie was selected in 2023 to be part of the NSS, enabling the acquisition of the Helsinki shipyard with the support of our firm. These achievements align with the steady growth our firm has pursued for many years.
About
GBV lawyers
Founded in Quebec in 1998 by Me Marc-André Gravel, GBV Lawyers is a Quebec leader in the legal field. The firm offers cutting-edge legal services, particularly in the areas of contract negotiation and transnational trade. He also offers strategic advisory services during negotiations and representations involving the State and its components. GBV Avocats serves business clients, both locally and internationally, from its offices in Quebec, Montreal and Sherbrooke.