Bluenose II steering bill could cost $350K

The province is bracing for a bill up to $350,000 to fix the hydraulic assisted steering system on the problem-plagued Bluenose II.

The vessel's rebuild is two years overdue and millions over budget.

"Fabrication of all components except the stainless steel foundation for the new system is complete," wrote Glenn Friel, a spokesman for the Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage in an email.

"Fabrication is expected to begin within the next day or so."

In June, the ship was officially handed over to the province from the Lunenburg Shipyard Alliance.

Under the guidance of a newly assembled team of three experts, the province decided to add hydraulics to the steering mechanism.

David Darrow, the premier's deputy minister, said earlier just 30 pounds of force should be needed to turn the wheel. In June he said it needed at least 100 pounds of force.

"Barring anything unforeseen, we should be able to achieve our goal of having the new system installed and tested before the end of the current sailing season," wrote Friel.

Last month, Premier Stephen McNeil said Bluenose II would not sail until at least next year.

The rebuild has already cost $19 million.