Federal, provincial and territorial ministers of fisheries and aquaculture have agreed to focus on key areas to develop Canada’s fisheries potential, says Prince Edward Island Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair.
Mr. LeClair was in St. John’s earlier this week to attend the ministers’ meeting of the Canadian and Atlantic Councils of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers.
”These meetings continue to be important for Prince Edward Island to provide input into fisheries and aquaculture issues of regional and national importance and in building a stronger working relationship with other levels of government,” said Mr. LeClair. “All levels of government need to work together in a collaborative fashion to ensure the fishery is able to achieve its potential.”
Mr. LeClair said that he stressed the importance of federal support for industry-led sustainability plans for lobster in Lobster Fishing Areas 24 and 26A. He also emphasized the need for the federal and provincial departments to continue to address the issue of invasive species and the need for clear communications around any potential changes to the Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program.
Ministers renewed their commitment to continue to support the lobster fishery and ensure its long-term sustainability and economic prosperity through various measures.
Ministers endorsed the National Aquaculture Strategic Action Plan Initiative which provides a framework for federal, provincial and territorial governments to work cooperatively to develop Canada’s potential in the aquaculture sector in an environmentally responsible way. They recognized the important economic benefits the industry provides to coastal communities.
Ministers also directed their officials to continue to work to address international requirements for seafood certification and traceability.
“Given the paramount importance of the fishing industry in Prince Edward Island, these meeting provide an excellent opportunity to highlight the potential of the fishery and to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation on key issues,” said Mr. LeClair.