Important element of Ocean Technology Sector expanding

The Holyrood Marine Base is expanding its capacity for ocean-related research and training programs with the help of $279,600 from the provincial government,

According to a news release, the marine base is a training and research facility operated by the Marine Institute of Memorial University. It provides students, researchers and ocean technology companies with access to the tools and environment they need to develop their products.

“Businesses operating in Newfoundland and Labrador’s ocean technology sector benefit from having access to world-class infrastructure at the Marine Institute,” said Keith Hutchings, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development. “The Holyrood Marine Base is a platform for industry to test and demonstrate their products, and complete ocean-related research. It provides a great learning environment for students. An expanded facility will strengthen the capabilities for local businesses, while positioning it as an international centre of excellence for ocean technology research and education.”

 The funding will help the Marine Institute with the construction of a temporary storage facility and a floating dock. It also complements work completed in 2010 that was supported by a $315,000 from the provincial government.

As part of its focus, the Holyrood Marine Base serves as a base for remote operating and autonomous underwater vehicles, as well as research relating to oil spill response, offshore safety, oceanography, fisheries, ocean technology, and marine biology.

“The Marine Institute’s ultimate objective at Holyrood is to provide unmatched services and access to the ocean for our students, researchers and clients in the oceans sector,” said Glenn Blackwood, Vice-president, Memorial University (Marine Institute).