The Governments of Prince Edward Island and Canada, in collaboration with the PEI Aquaculture Alliance, continue to enhance the productivity of the province’s mussel sector through another major investment towards invasive species.
Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair said his department, together with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) are investing a combined $180,000 toward phase two of the PEI Mussel Aquaculture Productivity Improvement Fund. This program was established to enhance the productivity of the sector which is being impacted by aquatic invasive species, such as the vase tunicate and clubbed tunicate.
“Prince Edward Island mussel growers are pioneers in the industry. Through their innovation and hard work, they have made PEI Canada’s number one mussel growing province,” said the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and regional minister for Prince Edward Island. “The Government of Canada’s investment, through DFO and ACOA, will allow them to develop new technology to fight invasive species and keep this industry thriving.”
“I am very pleased that my department, DFO, ACOA and the PEI Aquaculture Alliance have worked closely to identify resources to continue to invest in the challenge posed by invasive species,” said Minister LeClair. “The industry provides for more than 1,500 jobs in rural Prince Edward Island, and everyone involved must work closely together to ensure it remains sustainable.”
The Productivity Improvement Fund will assist the industry in designing, building and purchasing new equipment and technologies to enhance the productivity of the mussel sector on farms.
“Good progress has been made to develop specialized equipment to address invasive species and this funding will support continued development,” said Minister LeClair.
Prince Edward Island mussel growers are eligible to apply for funding from the new program. Details on program guidelines and eligibility criteria can be obtained by contacting the PEI Aquaculture Alliance at 902-368-2757, or by email at ed@aquaculturepei.com