The premier wishes he could turn back the clock on Bluenose II.
A new rudder will be installed on the province’s sailing ambassador next fall, bringing the total bill close to $25-million.
That’s roughly $10-million more than it’s original projected cost in 2009.
Stephen McNeil says the problem should’ve been addressed sooner.
“You know, I wish I had the foresight when I became the premier in October 2013 to realize that this project was in the position it was in because I would’ve certainly tackled it much earlier in my mandate.”
McNeil adds, the government of the day mishandled the vessel.
“The companies that were building this were not being listened to throughout this process and I think that it’s critical whenever you’re doing something like this, you need to make sure you’re listening to the people on the ground.”
The premier says the province has to learn from past mistakes and move forward following a successful 2015 sailing season.
Roughly 60,000 people set foot on Bluenose II last year.
That number could increase this year when the vessel begins sailing in June.
