New infrastructure for P.E.I.’s commercial fisheries
News release
Government of Canada investment helps harbours safely continue commercial operations and welcome back visitors
November 13, 2024 · Malpeque, Prince Edward Island · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Commercial small craft harbours have long been cultural hubs for Prince Edward Island’s coastal communities, inspiring art, tourism, and world-renowned culinary goods. They also serve as vital engines of economic activity and employment. The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring safe, modern infrastructure for working harbours to position the fishery for long-term, sustainable growth.
Supporting tradition and innovation in the fishery and aquaculture industries
Today, Heath MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, announced total contributions of up to $4.2 million for two wharf infrastructure projects on Prince Edward Island. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.
The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is providing a non-repayable contribution of up to $3.25 million to the Province of Prince Edward Island for the design and construction of a new landing wharf in Keir’s Shore, so that mussel boats can safely offload their catches. The Province of Prince Edward Island is providing a contribution of $4.55 million to complete the project.
The federal government is also providing $965,865 to the Harbour Authority of Covehead to support efforts to rebuild essential infrastructure around the wharf, including a multi-purpose building to replace lost bait sheds, so that commercial operations can continue and visitors experience the popular summer destination.
Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to a safe and sustainable ocean economy, supporting the thousands of Canadians employed in fishing and aquaculture industries across the country who provide quality product and pride to coastal communities.
Quotes
“Our seafood from PEI is famous around the world—locals are proud of it, tourists love it, it’s one of our biggest exports, and it employs plenty of hard-working folks. Your federal government is doing its part to keep this industry thriving through investments in PEI wharfs.”
- The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“The fishing industry has long been an economic engine for the Island. It is an iconic part of our culture, our cuisine, our landscape, and a favourite backdrop for thousands of visitors every year. As the tools of the trades, the processes, and the needs of the industry continue to evolve, government support for fishing and aquaculture is vital to ensure they remain central to the Island’s future.”
- Heath MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Malpeque
“Our Island fishers and growers need a network of safe and accessible harbours to ensure the safety of vessels and crews while also ensuring the efficiency of fishing and aquaculture operations. By providing reliable infrastructure, we can support sustainable fishing and aquaculture practices and benefit our local economies.“
- The Honourable Zack Bell, Minister for Fisheries, Tourism, Sports and Culture for the Province of Prince Edward Island
Quick facts
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PEI accounts for more than 44 million pounds of mussels each year, which represents about 80 percent of all Canadian mussel production.
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Twenty-five percent of PEI’s total mussel production is harvested out of Malpeque Harbour, the location of the new landing wharf at Keir’s Shore.
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The Harbour Authority of Covehead supports an active deep sea fishing community, several thriving restaurants and welcomes thousands of tourists each year.
Associated links
Contacts
Connor Burton
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
David Fleming
Communications Manager
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
david.fleming@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
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