Fisheries Ministers Hold First Meeting

Prince Edward Island Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Allan Campbell met with the new federal Fisheries and Oceans Minister Gail Shea in Ottawa on Wednesday to begin discussions on the Prince Edward Island fishery and aquaculture sectors. This was the first meeting between the two ministers since the appointment of the new federal cabinet last week.

“I was very pleased to have the opportunity to meet at this point with the new federal minister and to pass along my personal congratulations on her appointment,” said Mr. Campbell. “We discussed a number of issues related to fisheries and aquaculture in Prince Edward Island and how we can jointly work to deal with them.”

Mr. Campbell said he recognizes that the new federal minister has to address issues on a regional and national basis, but he is confident her knowledge and understanding of fisheries and aquaculture industries in Prince Edward Island will help to bring a new perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry in this province.

“I was very impressed with the Honourable Gail Shea’s commitment to keep the lines of communication open,” said Mr. Campbell. “We are very pleased to have a minister in Ottawa from Prince Edward Island who recognizes and understands our concerns.”

Mr. Campbell said the meeting was a very positive first step to enhance the level of cooperation between the federal and provincial departments.