SEPT-ÎLES, October 6, 2014 – The Port of Sept-Îles and event partners are thrilled by the resounding success of the second edition of Maritime Week, part of the celebrations marking the 15th anniversary of the local port authority. Nearly 4,000 people took part.
Two port days on the weekend of October 4 and 5 drew over 1,200 to wind up the week of enriching activities. The crowds had a chance to gather under the bigtop and get to know the main industries and organizations that make up the region’s maritime community and witness the first public appearance of Ms. Mylène Paquette’s celebrated oceangoing rowboat, the Hermel.
The opening of the festivities was held in the presence of guests of honour Their Excellencies the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and Ms. Sharon Johnston, who then cut the traditional ribbon.
“Early in the week, we were treated to the arrival of three cruise ships in three days,” said Destination Sept-Îles Nakauinanu (DSIN) Executive Director, Mr. Mario Sévigny. “That gave us a chance to show off Sept-Îles’ legendary hospitality, and we pulled it off magnificently. Working together, our many exhibitors and Destination Sept-Îles Nakauinanu partners welcomed over 2,500 passengers and crew members.”
“This event was a huge success, thanks to the generous contributions of over twenty exhibitors, including local businesses, organisations, and artisans as well as the many individuals who lent their talents, and we are very grateful to all of them,” said Director of Corporate Affairs, Ms. Patsy Keays.
“The tremendous involvement of the community was truly outstanding, as was the invaluable support of the NCSM Jolliet Naval Reserve and the City of Sept-Îles,” stated President and CEO, Mr. Pierre D. Gagnon. “Everything came together to make our Maritime Week unforgettable.”
ABOUT THE PORT OF SEPT-ÎLES
Boasting a variety of state-of-the-art facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is the leading iron ore port in North America, with an annual volume close to 30 million tons. Sept-Îles’ port facilities play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada. The Port’s annual economic impact is estimated at nearly $1 billion, with nearly 4,000 direct and indirect jobs.