The Maritime and Arctic Security and Safety conference (MASS) highlights Atlantic Canada's unique capabilities in defense and technology

The 13th annual Maritime & Arctic Security & Safety Conference (MASS), hosted by the Atlantic Canada Aerospace & Defense Association (ACADA), and sponsored by Saab Canada, Inc., is currently underway this week in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.

ACADA represents Atlantic Canada's aerospace and defense industry and promotes the region as a globally recognized hub of aerospace and defense excellence. (Atlantic Canada includes the provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland & Labrador.)

With 600 participants, this year's MASS conference is the biggest ever, according to Victoria Belbin, ACADA president and CEO.

The conference, held at the St. John's Convention Centre, is examining the policies, technologies and operations to leverage Atlantic Canada's leadership in environmental management, economic leadership and workforce development.

In his keynote remarks, Newfoundland Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham told the delegates that the province has the strategic geopolitical location as a gateway to the Arctic and Atlantic; a qualified workforce, and unique military and civil capabilities. "Newfoundland and Labrador," Wakeham said, "is 'built for defense."

"Newfoundland and Labrador has always turned challenges into opportunities," Wakeham said. "Today, those same strengths position us to play an even greater role in Canada's defense and security future. We