November 16, 1999
(Fisheries and Aquaculture)

Government-IndustryWorking Group on Fisheries

R. John Efford, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, today announced a new Government-Industry Working Group on Fisheries as part of his department's new Quality Action Plan that will focus on developing a long-term strategy to achieve and maintain premium quality fish products.

Mr. Efford said the Government-Industry Working Group on Fisheries will concentrate on a number of issues surrounding quality, with an initial emphasis on the shrimp fishery. Members of the Working Group include: Alastair O'Reilly, FANL; Earle McCurdy, FFAW; Karl Sullivan, Barry Group; Ross Butler, Fishery Products International; Rosemary Buckingham, Daley Brothers; and representatives from the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

"Through a team approach, we want to continue to create an awareness of the importance of producing a top quality product and to further dialogue with those involved in the industry about the proper handling of species like shrimp, through harvesting, offloading, transporting, processing and marketing," said Mr. Efford.

He added: "It's paramount that everybody be involved in moving our fishery forward, from the harvester to the fork-lift operator to the trucker and the processor. Every individual plays an important role in the industry and I believe together we will make a difference."

The initial phase of the Quality Action Plan and the first function of the Working Group on Fisheries will be to conduct a series of forums throughout the province with industry stakeholders to identify areas of concern as it relates to quality, and pinpoint ways to resolve these issues.

"We must be pro-active if we want to be number one in the global marketplace. If we are to achieve our goal we must become more competitive and learn how to properly handle our fish products," said Mr. Efford. "We must build on our initiatives if we are to meet the competitive realities of the international marketplace. Other countries such as Iceland have this philosophy and have developed a strong presence in the marketplace."

Mr. Efford added that his department's Quality Assurance Program, which was put in place in 1996, has been very effective and the department remains committed to this program. However, Mr. Efford

said our evolving fishery presents many challenges, especially in the shrimp fishery which he insists must be managed carefully if we are to derive the maximum benefits from this valuable resource. He said the new Quality Action Plan, which will be spearheaded by the working group, will build on the department's existing aggressive quality initiatives.

"There are many aspects of the fishery that require a thorough appreciation by industry stakeholders, including effective harvesting, handling, storage, temperature and processing practices. The new working group will provide and identify expertise in these areas to demonstrate the importance of maintaining a top quality product throughout all stages in the handling process from harvesting to marketing."

Mr. Efford encourages all industry stakeholders to participate in the meetings, adding that these forums will help develop a long-term strategy on quality in the fishing industry. He said it's imperative that we work together to achieve a viable fishing industry for future generations.

The forums will take place over the next couple of months. Details of the first education and awareness meeting, which will focus on shrimp, will be announced shortly.

Media contact: Sonia B. Glover-Sullivan, Communications, (709) 729-3733.

1999 11 16                      11:35 a.m.