Prime Minister Visits Damen Shipyards’ Head Office in Gorinchem, The Netherlands

On Tuesday, November 22nd, Prime Minister Mark Rutte visited Damen Shipyards’ Head Office in Gorinchem. The visit was motivated by Mr Rutte’s wish to stay continuously informed of current and future developments in the Dutch industry, especially the shipbuilding industry and the Dutch maritime cluster.

Kommer Damen (Chairman of the Board), René Berkvens (CEO) and Arnout Damen (COO) welcomed Mr Rutte in Damen’s reception hall and started out with a general overview of the worldwide operating company by watching the Damen corporate film.

The premier showed great interest in Damen’s vessels and production processes when touring the yard, its production halls and the quaysides, where the company keeps a large number of workboats in stock in order to serve its clients with fast deliveries. On the way, Mr Rutte spoke with many of the engineers, welders and foremen at work. Finally, Mr Rutte and his company sat down in Mr Damen’s office to discuss several topics of mutual interest in a relaxed atmosphere.

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World Maritime News Staff, November 23, 2011; Image: Damen