LUNENBURG, N.S. – Nova Scotia Premier Darell Dexter has announced $460,000 in funding for the province’s boat building association.

The money will be used to develop a new trade known as a marine service technician.

The idea is to train workers to service, repair, refit and upgrade ships.

Dexter says the new training program will ensure boat builders have updated skills.

Association executive director Tim Edwards says the money will help Nova Scotia boat builders remain competitive in order to attract international business.

The Nova Scotia Boatbuilders Association has more than 80 industry members.