The Canadian government will review the procurement process for two emergency tow vessels after complaints by Heiltsuk Horizon Maritime.
The company, a partnership between the aboriginal Heiltsuk Nation and Horizon Maritime Services, alleged in August the government-funded tugs would be under-powered, posing safety issues.
The contract, from the country's Department of Public Works and Government Services, was originally awarded to Atlantic Services.
"From day one, we stated the procurement process was flawed and that the vessels awarded are older and far less powerful than the newer, state-of-the-art vessels Heiltsuk Horizon has proposed," said Chief Councillor Marilyn Slett.
Per the determination from the Canadian International Trade Tribunal, the Department of Public Works and Government Services will reevaluate a portion of the request for proposals.
Atlantic Services Limited will remain as the winner until the re-evaluation is done, but no further funds will be expended on the project.
Heiltsuk Horizon will be reimbursed for legal costs and may be reimbursed for lost profit.
