June 7, 2005 Dartmouth, N.S. - Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) today released a draft Integrated Ocean Management Plan for the Eastern Scotian Shelf for public consultation. It provides long-term direction for the management of a 325,000 km2 offshore area, stretching from Halifax to the Laurentian Channel. The draft plan is the first of its kind in Canada, and is a new approach for managing Canada's oceans. Traditionally, activities of the various ocean sectors have been managed separately, on a case-by-case basis. By contrast, the new Integrated Ocean Management Plan sets out processes to manage an entire ocean area, including short- and long-term activities. This approach will facilitate greater coordination and cooperation between users and reduce potential conflict. Most importantly, an integrated approach considers the combined impact of all activities on the ocean environment and ensures that developments in the ocean area are environmentally sustainable. "Integrated ocean management planning promotes conservation of ocean resources and ecosystems so that Canadians receive the greatest benefit from the oceans," stated Geoff Regan, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans. "This draft plan represents a commitment by a broad range of organizations to work toward common goals," he added. The draft plan is being developed through the Eastern Scotian Shelf Integrated Management Initiative, a collaborative planning process under Canada's Oceans Act. A wide variety of industries, conservation groups, scientists, coastal communities, organizations, and government agencies are participating in this initiative. The intention is to establish a plan that is supported by those stakeholders interested in this ocean area. DFO will be conducting a public review of the draft plan over the next four months. Those with an interest are welcome to participate in the process and contribute to its development. The review will include public workshops, townhall meetings with stakeholder groups, and calls for written comments. - 30 - Information on the draft Integrated Ocean Management Plan and the Plan Review can be found online at: http://www.mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/oceans/e/essim/essim-intro-e.html. A backgrounder is also available online at: http://www.mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/communications/maritimes/back05e/B-MAR-05-01E.html. For more information: Communications Branch Fisheries and Oceans Canada Maritimes Region 902-426-3550 CommEnquire@mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
