October 12, 2011
Nanaimo, British Columbia
Vancouver Island University’s (VIU) International Centre for Sturgeon Studies (ICSS) celebrated its official opening on October 3, but additional federal funding announced today will outfit the centre with final equipment, furniture and fixtures, and contribute to the final construction costs.
The investment of $250,000 is being provided through the West Coast Community Adjustment Program (WestCCAP), and builds upon $717,700 previously allocated through the Western Diversification Program.
“Our Government is pleased to have been able to provide additional funding for a facility that will provide both fascinating and useful information on an important species,
” said Dr. James Lunney, Member of Parliament for Nanaimo—Alberni, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification. “Along with our partners, we are helping to create a major centre for sturgeon activities in Canada and British Columbia, which will in turn drive the creation of a new industry and permanent jobs.
”
Now operational, the ICSS will support sustainable coastal economies in undertaking new aquaculture opportunities. The Centre will support business development by supplying juvenile sturgeon to industry partners, and serve as a critical hub for research, knowledge and technology transfer. Success is underway, as the ICSS is already scheduled to serve as host for the 7th International Symposium on Sturgeon in 2013.
VIU President and Vice-Chancellor Ralph Nilson expressed gratitude to the federal government for its ongoing support. “Students, faculty and staff, along with consumers and the West Coast seafood industry, will all benefit from this investment. The International Centre for Sturgeon Studies keeps our university in the forefront of aquaculture research and enables us to learn more about sturgeon and sustainable practices to ensure their long-term viability as a high-quality source of food.”
“Community Futures is proud to support the creation of the International Centre Sturgeon Studies,
” stated Jolynn Green, Executive Director for Community Futures Central Island. “The creation of this centre will expand the aquaculture industry in our region, diversifying our rural communities while creating higher paid employment with skilled and knowledgeable labour.
”
The West Coast Community Adjustment Program will provide more than $7 million to support economic growth, job creation and the future sustainability of B.C. coastal communities affected by challenges within the salmon fishery. The Fisheries Legacy Trust, comprised of the 13 west coast Community Futures, is delivering this initiative on behalf of Western Economic Diversification Canada. The Government of Canada supports initiatives that combat challenges facing traditional industries, protect resources in affected areas in order to support the long-term success of resource-dependent communities.
Western Economic Diversification Canada works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and advances the interests of western Canadians in national decision making.
For additional information, contact (media only):
Jaime Burke
Regional Communications Manager
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: 604-666-1318
Don Tillapaugh
Director, International Centre for Sturgeon Studies
Vancouver Island University
Telephone: 250-740-6113
Cell: 250-618-6056
WD Toll-Free Number:1-888-338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1-877-303-3388
WD Website: www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
