August 3, 2011
Deep Bay, B.C. – Today Parliamentary Secretary Randy Kamp, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, announced significant funding to support innovation and sustainability in the aquaculture industry in British Columbia.
“Our government is committed to enhancing the global competitiveness, productivity and environmental performance of Canada’s aquaculture industry,” said Mr. Kamp. “We are pleased to help keep the B.C. economy strong by supporting these promising new commercial innovations. Canada has the potential to become a world leader in aquaculture with our extensive coastlines, an international reputation for safe, high-quality fish and seafood products, a skilled workforce and strong management expertise.”
The federal funding provided through the Aquaculture Innovation and Market Access Program (AIMAP) is supporting three finfish and five shellfish aquaculture projects in B.C. These projects are designed to help the industry expand its market potential through new technologies for use in the B.C. aquaculture industry.
The companies receiving project funding include: Target Marine Hatcheries (Sechelt), Sablefish Canada (Salt Spring Island), West Coast Fish Culture (Lois Lake), Island Sea Farms (Salt Spring Island), Little Wing Oysters (Powell River), Island Scallops (Qualicum Beach), as well as the Coastal Shellfish Corporation, which is leading projects on behalf of the Heiltsuk First Nation and the Metlakatla First Nation.
Nationally, aquaculture production has increased four-fold in the past 20 years. Approximately 70 per cent of all Canadian aquaculture products are sold to foreign markets, and the world now depends on aquaculture as an essential source of nutrition. In fact, globally, half of all fish and seafood is now farmed.
“As Canada's aquaculture industry continues to grow, it brings economic and social benefits to our country,” said Mr. Kamp. “Our government is ensuring that this industry has the support it needs to expand in an environmentally responsible and sustainable way.”
More information on DFO’s aquaculture program, the AIMAP application process, a summary of projects funded, frequently asked questions about AIMAP, as well as contact information, is available at: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/aquaculture/sustainable-durable/innovation-eng.htm.
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For more information:
Tom Robbins
Communications Advisor
Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Pacific Region
604-666-7120
C: 604-809-6346
Barbara Mottram
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613-992-3474
NR-PR-11-006e
