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The previous government relied on an “unrealistic” costing methodology that failed to take into account various price increases including inflation, Foote told reporters after the event.

This is the second cash infusion for the science vessel since the Conservatives’ initial $108-million budget in 2008 was boosted by $35 million a year later. Monday’s announcement puts the project’s overall cost at more than $170 million, or 60 per cent over budget.

Conservative procurement critic Steven Blaney said the Liberals inherited a rigorous process that was recognized by the auditor general as being fair and competitive.

The new government is responsible to ensure those ships are delivered on time and at cost, he said.

“The Liberals cannot blame others for meeting the responsibility to ensure the best interests of the navy, of the coast guard and of the taxpayers. That’s what we expect them to do,” Blaney said.

“They are in charge. Now they have to step up to the plate.”

During her announcement, Foote left the door open to the possibility of further cost overruns and downplayed the suggestion that Seaspan is to blame for the spiralling price tag.

“It’s not about fault. We have not had a shipbuilding industry in this country in 20 years, so getting it right is really important,” she said, adding that more funds would be made available if necessary.

Seaspan president Brian Carter said the initial 2008 budget predated his company’s involvement in the national shipbuilding strategy, which became official four years later.