Lévis

Thursday July 17, 2014

Bringing military history in Lévis to life

When you stroll by rue du Mémorial in Lévis today, the vast public park may easily be mistaken for a simple lovely green space, with a nice fountain and some memorial statues. But the park has a storied past, one that reminds us of the days of military strategy and adventure. This weekend, a special event hopes to transport you back to the days of the military camp, from the Battle of the Plains of Abraham, to the Second World War. Julia Caron met with one of the volunteers spearheading la Renaissance du Camp Lauzon, Richard Garon. Listen here.

Categories: History, Julia Caron, Lévis

Tuesday June 10, 2014

HMS Jerry Jan II found in Lévis

Naval buffs or World War Two history buffs might recognize this vessel's name: the H.M.S. Jeffy Jan II. It was commissioned into the Navy in Quebec City in 1940 and played a very special role.

For years, people thought it was lost -- that is, until this spring. André Kirouac is the Director of the Naval Museum of Quebec, and he tells us more. Listen here.

Categories: Lévis

Tuesday June 3, 2014

Davie Shipyard offers Arctic icebreaker for half price

The Davie shipyard in Lévis didn't have much swagger three years ago when it bid on the huge federal contracts for new navy ships and Coast Guard vessels. Barely out of bankruptcy protection, the yard lost the contracts. But now solidly back on its feet under new owners, Davie is making itself heard again. The country's biggest yard has let Ottawa know that if it's serious about getting its new icebreaker built on time and on budget, it should call Davie. The chosen yard in B.C., Seaspan, apparently won't deliver it for another 10 years and at a higher cost. But Ottawa is still far from convinced.

Alex Vicefield is the chief executive officer of the Inocea Group, Davie's parent company. Listen here.