The support by Islanders and tourists for Prince Edward Island lobster is clear from the continued success of our Love our Lobster campaign, says Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Alan McIsaac.
“Since Love our Lobster began, we have seen a huge growth not only in the number of retailers participating but the number of people getting out and buying lobster,” said Minister McIsaac. “The lobster industry is an important contributor to the province providing jobs in our rural communities and helping expand the provincial economy. It is great to see such support for our Island fishers and the industry.”
More than 1,200 fishers are involved in the lobster fishery. In 2014, 29.7 million pounds were landed with an overall landed value of $117 million.
The 2015 Love our Lobster campaign wrapped up June 30 and included the participation of 21 Island retailers. This year, 3,900 ballots were received which is approximately $140,000 in sales. The grand prize winner was Kenneth Johnson who bought his lobster at JMK Fish Mart in Summerside. Mr. Johnson will receive a private lobster dinner party for ten catered by Lobster on the Wharf.
The goal of the Love our Lobster campaign is to increase awareness and demand for Island lobster.
“I encourage all Islanders and visitors to continue to choose Island lobster and support our Island fishers who will soon be harvesting fresh lobster for our fall season,” said Minister McIsaac.