A project has started to replace a shipping workshop, MPs heard last week.

Three empty buildings were being refurbished to replace the ageing workshop of the Department of Marine and Port Services in Dockyard.

Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism and Transport, Culture and Sport, said that the Dockyard Workshop Project was not just a matter of convenience but “a necessity for the operational integrity and future growth of the department’s marine fleet”.

He added: “The level of organisation, technical expertise and infrastructure in place truly reflects the dedication and efficiency required to maintain such a vital component of the island’s transportation network.”

Mr Darrell said that the department’s workshops in Dockyard and East Broadway had “long been plagued” by a lack of resources and space.

He said that reorganisation efforts in the stores section of the Dockyard location will ensure that the necessary parts can be available to meet International Maritime Organisation standards.

The three buildings came with large storage areas, the minister explained, as well as furniture and offices for port staff.

He said that office tools, including computers and work bays, would be brought in to assist workers.

Training areas would also be used to offer opportunities to those who hope to get apprenticeships in several marine trades.

Mr Darrell said these training areas would feature Stem classes that could improve staff’s technical proficiencies and help to save costs on overseas training.

A wharf adjacent to the workshop would further be used to break down engines and other vessel components.

The minister said that work on the East Broadway port workshop would be started after the Dockyard workshop was completed.

He added: “It is important to note that as part of the Government’s mission to provide enhanced learning opportunities, we will also explore integrating such facilities into schools to afford hands-on learning and experiences for students interested in marine engineering, mechanics and trade.”

Mr Darrell provided an update during his speech about two new ferries being built in Singapore that are expected to be completed in October.

He added that the 550-passenger boats will “support our goal of providing reliable, high-quality public transportation for residents and visitors alike”.