Slim pickings for laid-off Kiewit workers in Marystown

Theunion that represents laid-off shipyard workers in Marystownsays it doesn't know what's next for 1,300 people who are looking for new work, after the completion of a drilling module for the Hebron project.

"Bittersweet," is how Rick Farrell, president of Uniforlocal 20, described the end of the three-year job.

"Great production, great quality by the workforce here in Marystown, but at the same time we know we're going to be laid off just before Christmas, andprobably itwill be a long whilebefore we get any more future work."

• Marystown completes work on giant module for Hebron project
• Hebron project an economic boon for Marystown

The well-paying jobs withKiewit-Kvaernerallowed the workers to stay close to home with their families, said Farrell, but the work ended in early December.

The drilling support modulewill be towed to Bull Arm, for assemblywith other components of the Hebron gravity-based production system.

"Right now, there's only one opportunity out there," Farrell told CBC Radio'sSt. John's Morning Show on Wednesday.

"Work for the topsides mating barges for this Hebron project. We've bid on it, Marystown-Kiewit has, but the bid has gone international."

There may be some opportunities at Bull Arm or Muskrat Falls over the next year or so, said Farrell,but for the Marystown yard, "there's nothing on the goat all, unfortunately."

Opportunities in Alberta have slowed down considerablyas well a challenge for tradespeople and the 600 apprentices who worked on the Hebron module.

"This oil industry is project-driven, and it's boom and bust on most occasions. You have to put your nose to the grindstone, search out smaller jobs and smaller worksites in the country," said Farrell.

He said the union is hoping to speak with Judy Foote, the MP for BonavistaBurinTrinity,who is also the Minister of Public Services and Procurement.

"Hopefully, that might work to our advantage, going forward."