August 26, 2014 - North Sydney, NS - Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Cape Breton Bivalve Inc. will upgrade and expand its mussel farming operation and establish a mussel processing line with assistance from the Government of Canada. Senator Michael L. MacDonald was in North Sydney today to announce a $500,000 repayable contribution through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (ACOA).
The project supports the upgrade and expansion of the former 5M Aqua Farm located in St. Ann's Harbour, as well as the development of a mussel processing line at the company’s Northsyde Processing facility in North Sydney. Cape Breton Bivalve’s majority shareholder is Louisbourg Seafoods, a locally-owned, family-operated company with close to thirty years’ experience in the fishing industry. The repayable contribution will be used to acquire new equipment for the farming operation and for equipment and building renovations for the processing line.
Quick Facts
- The aquaculture industry includes approximately 200 aquaculture businesses and accounts for 750 direct jobs across Nova Scotia.
- As a significant contributor to the provincial economy, aquaculture has an estimated production value of $57 million annually.
- This project will result in a significant increase in the amount of product available for market on an annual basis.
- Cape Breton Bivalve will offer a cooked in-shell, vacuum packed and frozen product. Cooked and frozen meat will be prepared, mostly for the food service industry. A portion of the product will be sold live.
- The availability of local mussel processing may attract new producers to the industry.
Quotes
“In our region, the fishing industry is part of the fabric of daily life, and as such, aquaculture farming plays a significant role in the area’s economy. Our Government is pleased to support local businesses and communities as they build on their strengths to create jobs and economic opportunities for Canadians.”
- Senator Michael L. MacDonald, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (ACOA)
“With this expansion, Cape Breton Bivalve is poised for success and ready to go to the next level. We have a fantastic aquaculture site, experience in the commercial seafood industry as well as knowledgeable and dedicated employees who are committed to the success of this venture.”
- Dannie Hanson, Sustainability Officer, Cape Breton Bivalve
Associated Links
Contacts
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
D.A Landry
Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-564-3617
Adam Mugridge
Project Development Officer
Cape Breton Bivalve
902-794-8501
